Striker Firas Al-Buraikan resumes training with Saudi national team ahead of World Cup qualifier

Striker Firas Al-Buraikan resumes training with Saudi national team ahead of World Cup qualifier
Firas Al-Buraikan took part in a training session with the Saudi national football team on Wednesday ahead of their match against Japan in the third round of the World Cup qualifiers. (Supplied)
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Updated 09 October 2024
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Striker Firas Al-Buraikan resumes training with Saudi national team ahead of World Cup qualifier

Striker Firas Al-Buraikan resumes training with Saudi national team ahead of World Cup qualifier
  • Green Falcons take on group leaders Japan at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah on Thursday in the 3rd round of the Asian qualifiers

JEDDAH: Firas Al-Buraikan took part in a training session with the Saudi national football team on Wednesday ahead of their match against Japan in the third round of the World Cup qualifiers. The Al-Ahli striker recently recovered from a muscle injury.
Thamer Al-Khaibari also trained after joining the Green Falcons at the training camp, as head coach Roberto Mancini oversaw the final preparations for Thursday’s game at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.
The session began with warm-up exercises, followed by passing practice and tactical training, before concluding with half-pitch mini matches followed by stretching.
Saudi Arabia are in second place in Group C of the Asian World Cup qualifiers with 4 points from two games. Japan lead the group with a maximum 6 points, Bahrain are third with 3 points, followed by Indonesia on 2 points, Australia with 1 point, and China who have yet to claim a point. The top two teams from each of the three groups will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, while the teams who finish third and fourth will advance to the fourth round of qualification.


Basketball returns to NEOM Beach Games with FIBA 3x3 World Tour

Basketball returns to NEOM Beach Games with FIBA 3x3 World Tour
Updated 10 November 2024
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Basketball returns to NEOM Beach Games with FIBA 3x3 World Tour

Basketball returns to NEOM Beach Games with FIBA 3x3 World Tour
  • Single-hoop tournament’s new incarnation this year is the top tier of the 3x3 format

NEOM, Saudi Arabia: 3x3 basketball returned to NEOM Beach Games this week with the hosting of the FIBA 3x3 World Tour NEOM 2024.

Thrilling final matches saw Team Miami triumph in the men’s tournament and Bahrain’s Al-Zallaq come out on top in the Women’s Cup. The competition drew large crowds at the Beach Games Hub to witness the finalists secure their well-earned victories.

FIBA 3x3 World Tour NEOM 2024 at NEOM Beach Games featured 16 teams, including returning men’s teams Amsterdam, Hangzhou and Plunge. The presence of recent Olympic gold medalists Worthy De Jong, Dylan Travis and Frank Seguela brought an increased competitive edge to the event.

Four Saudi Arabia men’s teams — AlUla, Dammam, Jeddah and Makkah — took part in the tournament.

The NEOM Beach Games also saw strong women’s representation from Saudi Arabia, with Jeddah and Riyadh teams stepping on to the court.

Following their remarkable success in Manama, where Riyadh made history by winning the Kingdom’s first international 3x3 women’s trophy, they continued to impress by reaching the semifinals.

Jeddah excelled throughout the competition, finishing as the cup runner-up after a close match against Al-Zallaq.


WTA Foundation champions women’s health at event in Riyadh

WTA Foundation champions women’s health at event in Riyadh
Updated 10 November 2024
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WTA Foundation champions women’s health at event in Riyadh

WTA Foundation champions women’s health at event in Riyadh
  • Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud: ‘We have laid the foundations for cooperation with WTA toward a healthier, more active future both on and off the court’
  • Ahead of the WTA Finals Riyadh, former players Marion Bartoli, Martina Hingis and Daniela Hantuchova called for greater resources, visibility and funding

RIYADH: Ahead of the final match of the inaugural WTA Finals Riyadh presented by PIF, the WTA Foundation on Saturday hosted “Championing Women’s Health Together,” an educational event attended by Saudi Ambassador to the US Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud and tennis legends Marion Bartoli, Daniela Hantuchova and Martina Hingis.

The event, highlighting a new vision for women and girls in Saudi Arabia, and addressing global health priorities such as maternal and child malnutrition, was supported by several regional and global partners, including the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health and Ministry of Sport, the Saudi Tennis Federation and WTA’s title partner, Hologic.

“Championing Women’s Health Together” is one of five major development engagements to take place this year since the WTA Foundation launched its “Women Change the Game” campaign in partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation this past International Women’s Day.

Panel discussions tackled a variety of issues including the role of preventative women’s health, the lifelong health benefits of sports for women and girls, the global state of women’s health and maternal nutrition, and the goals of the WTA Foundation’s Global Women’s Health Fund.

The fund launched with a $1.5 million donation from Hologic. It focuses on providing prenatal vitamins to at least 1 million women in low- and middle-income countries in its first year. The resources will be directed to the UNICEF-led Child Nutrition Fund, a global initiative aimed at ending malnutrition.

Former Wimbledon champion and WTA Foundation Game Changer Marion Bartoli highlighted global advancements in women’s healthcare while acknowledging persistent challenges.

“Healthy women are indeed the cornerstone of healthy families, vibrant communities and prosperous economies — from right here in Saudi Arabia to every corner of the globe,” she said.

Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud highlighted the tournament’s lasting impact in inspiring women and girls through tennis as well as promoting healthier lifestyles.

“The legacy of the WTA Finals Riyadh will resonate for years to come, extending beyond the remarkable athleticism shown by the world’s top female tennis players this week,” she said.

“By hosting the WTA Finals, we aimed to inspire women and girls across Saudi Arabia and beyond to embrace tennis not only as a sport, but as a powerful tool for empowerment and community building. Through initiatives like ‘Championing Women’s Health Together’ and our collaborative efforts with the WTA Foundation and the Saudi Tennis Federation to integrate tennis into schools and communities, we have laid the foundations for cooperation with WTA toward a healthier, more active future both on and off the court.”

Dr. Khaled Alabdulkareem, assistant deputy minister for primary healthcare, Ministry of Health, said: “The relationship between sports and healthcare is intrinsic, as an active society is a healthy one. The WTA Finals aligns with our national Vision 2030 ambitions to inspire a healthier, more physically active society. The legacy of the WTA Finals, by inspiring more women into tennis, along with today’s discussions highlighting women’s healthcare, are part of achieving our goals.”

Ann Austin, executive director of the WTA Foundation, highlighted the organization’s dedication to community development.

“The WTA is about changing lives through tennis with its partners around the world, and when we show the world how healthy we can be, we empower an entire generation of young female champions,” she said.

Meanwhile Dr. Alaa Murabit, director of global health advocacy and communications at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, said that across the world “women are changing the game in their homes, workplaces and communities every day.

“While they lead this work, it’s essential to make their health and well-being a priority,” she added. “Investing in women as game-changers requires ensuring women everywhere have access to proven health and nutrition solutions, which is what ‘Women Change the Game’ is all about.”


McIlroy and Bale join forces for special golf challenge in Abu Dhabi

McIlroy and Bale join forces for special golf challenge in Abu Dhabi
Updated 10 November 2024
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McIlroy and Bale join forces for special golf challenge in Abu Dhabi

McIlroy and Bale join forces for special golf challenge in Abu Dhabi
  • The sporting icons took part in a series of stunts to promote the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship

Sporting superstars Rory McIlroy and Gareth Bale joined forces recently to showcase their golfing abilities in a unique, eye-catching campaign ahead of the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship.

The four-day Rolex Series event, part of the inaugural DP World Tour Play-Offs, is currently taking place at Yas Links, with the likes of McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, Justin Rose and Shane Lowry competing.

McIlroy, reigning Race to Dubai champion, was joined by Bale, the former Real Madrid forward and keen golfer, with the pair taking part in a series of visually impressive challenges on Yas Island which involved a fast-paced flying drone.

Firstly, McIlroy and Bale were tasked with hitting shots, both individually and together, with the drone flying as close to the ball flights as possible, changing the flight path around the ball trajectories each time.

They were then challenged to hit a flying drone in the style of a clay shooting target, with the pair working as a team over multiple rounds to complete the task.

 


Al-Jazira Jiu-Jitsu Club tops medal table at Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship

Al-Jazira Jiu-Jitsu Club tops medal table at Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship
Updated 10 November 2024
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Al-Jazira Jiu-Jitsu Club tops medal table at Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship

Al-Jazira Jiu-Jitsu Club tops medal table at Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship
  • The competition for youngsters is part of the ongoing 16th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship

ABU DHABI: Al-Jazira Jiu-Jitsu Club secured top position on the second day of the Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship at Mubadala Arena, part of the 16th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

Commando Group claimed second place, followed by the Kazakhstan National Team in third.

Mohamed Salem Al-Dhaheri, vice chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, commented: “Today, we witnessed future champions deliver outstanding performances characterized by skill, enthusiasm, and professionalism. The high level of these youth athletes reflects their dedication and passion for the sport. We take pride in Abu Dhabi’s role as a global hub where athletes can showcase their talents and take significant steps in their careers.”

Al-Dhaheri also commended the young athletes from the UAE who secured multiple medals, adding: “This generation has the potential to achieve remarkable success on the international stage. It is inspiring to see their talent and determination, proving they are on the right path to success.

“The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship serves as an ideal platform for supporting young athletes, helping them reach their goals and gaining invaluable experience for future achievements.”


Saudi Arabia and UAE advance to quarterfinals, Palestine in semis of Baseball United Arab Classic

Saudi Arabia and UAE advance to quarterfinals, Palestine in semis of Baseball United Arab Classic
Updated 10 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia and UAE advance to quarterfinals, Palestine in semis of Baseball United Arab Classic

Saudi Arabia and UAE advance to quarterfinals, Palestine in semis of Baseball United Arab Classic
  • Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia and India also advance to Sunday’s playoff round at Baseball United Ballpark

DUBAI: The playoff field for the inaugural Baseball United Arab Classic is officially set after a series of decisive matchups took place on Saturday, with Pakistan and Palestine earning top positions in their groups and automatic spots in the semifinals, while the UAE, Sri Lanka, Saudi Arabia and India secured their spots in the quarterfinals.

The playoffs and final will take place on Sunday.

“The semifinals and championship are shaping up to be absolute classics,” said Kash Shaikh, chairman, CEO and co-founder of Baseball United. “Pakistan and Palestine both look great, and the UAE and Sri Lanka both believe they can finish with a trophy. It’s going to be an amazing evening of baseball at Baseball United Ballpark.”

As the playoff picture takes shape, the matchups are set for an action-packed day of baseball, with teams vying for a spot in the championship and the opportunity to compete for national glory.

India (A3) will face Sri Lanka (B2), followed by Saudi Arabia (B3) taking on UAE (A2). The winners of these games will advance to play Pakistan (A1) and Palestine (B1) respectively. The day will culminate in the championship game at 8:00 p.m. local time, featuring the winners of the semifinal matchups.

Saturday game recaps:

Nepal vs. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka took charge in a commanding 10-0 win over Nepal, led by an explosive offensive display and strong pitching. Center fielder Sameera Rathnayake excelled, going 3-for-3 with a double, a triple, three runs scored, and two runs batted in. Third baseman Roshan Samaraweera added to the effort, going 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs. On the mound, right-hander Sugath De Silva delivered four scoreless innings, allowing only two hits and striking out two to help secure the victory.

UAE vs. Bangladesh

The UAE powered past Bangladesh in a 9-2 win, highlighted by standout performances at the plate and on the mound. Right fielder Lorenzo Riddle led the offense with a perfect 3-for-3 outing, launching two home runs and driving in four runs. Second baseman Alejandro Perez and shortstop Chris Beyers each contributed two hits and an RBI, adding to the UAE’s impressive lineup. Right-hander Claudio Gomez controlled the game on the mound, throwing five innings with no earned runs and five strikeouts. Bangladesh’s offense was limited to just four hits, with right-handed pitchers Tanmoy Das and Salam Chowdhury struggling to hold back the UAE’s momentum.

Pakistan vs. Afghanistan

Pakistan continued its undefeated streak with a commanding 17-3 victory over Afghanistan. Shortstop Zan Shariff led the charge, going 3-for-3 with two doubles and three RBIs, while left-fielder Amar Mahmood contributed a 3-for-4 performance, including a triple and three RBIs. Right-hander Syed Ali earned the win, pitching 1 ⅓ innings, allowing three runs, and striking out three. Afghanistan, still in search of its first win, struggled to contain Pakistan’s powerful offense as they fell to 0-4 in the tournament and were eliminated from the playoffs.

KSA vs. Palestine

Palestine extended its undefeated run with a decisive 12-2 victory over Saudi Arabia. Taking advantage of a struggling Saudi pitching staff that issued 14 walks, Palestine capitalized on every opportunity to secure the win and solidify their strong standing in the tournament. Saudi Arabia, unable to contain Palestine’s disciplined approach at the plate, now looks to regroup after the tough loss.

India vs. Bangladesh

India secured a dominant 9-1 victory over Bangladesh, advancing to the quarterfinals and eliminating their opponents from playoff contention. Left-fielder Siddarth Vaishnav led the charge, going 3-for-4 with three runs scored and two RBIs. First baseman Narender Kumar added to the offensive attack, finishing 2-for-2 with a double and three RBIs. On the mound, left-handed pitcher Ishan Thakur pitched two innings, allowing one run while striking out three, and handed it over to RHP Tushar Lalwani who closed out the game with two scoreless innings, striking out five batters to seal the win.