ROME, Italy – Novak Djokovic overcame having to play twice in a day before cruising into his 8th final of the Rome Masters with a ruthless 6-1, 6-0 win over Dominic Thiem on Saturday, May 20.

Djokovic, the former 4-time champion, was forced to finish his quarter-final over Juan Martin del Potro earlier in the day after their match was rained off late on Friday.

But the setback seemed only to inspire the 30-year-old Serbian second seed, as he set up what is expected to be a mouthwatering final, and first meeting, with Germany's rising star Alexander Zverev.

"It was my best performance of the year," said Djokovic after his 59-minute win over Thiem who had knocked out Rafael Nadal in the quarter-finals.

"I'm overjoyed and happy with every minute that I spent on the court today, even with Del Potro and also now with Thiem.

"It was a perfect match. Everything that I intended to do, I have done it and even more."

Zverev, 20, became the youngest player in a decade to reach a Masters final when he clinched a gutsy 6-4, 6-7 (5/7), 6-1 win over big-serving American John Isner.

Djokovic was the previous youngest Masters finalist, going all the way to the title in Miami as a 19-year-old in 2007.

Zverev will climb to a new career high in the rankings at number 14 by reaching the final and would break into the top 10 with the title.

"I don't look at these kind of stats, who is the youngest player to have a Masters 1000 title or things like this. I try to play match by match and try to improve," said Zverev, who fired 12 aces and 41 winners past the 32-year-old Isner.

Thiem, beaten to the Madrid Masters title by Nadal last week, avenged his loss by dumping Spain's former 7-time Rome champion out in the quarters on Friday.

Muguruza quits with injury

But the Austrian's dream run was quickly brought to an end by a clinical Djokovic on Saturday as the Serbian took his record to 5-0 against the 23-year-old.

Djokovic raced through the first set in 26 minutes, broke Thiem immediately in the opening game of the second set and was pumping the air in defiance after holding off a brief fightback in the 3rd game to break the Austrian again for a 3-0 lead.

From there, a tiring Thiem lost focus on his way to defeat as Djokovic reached his first ATP World Tour final since beating Andy Murray, who was sent crashing out by Fabio Fognini in Rome, in his opening tournament of the season in Doha.

The Serbian, swept aside by Nadal in the semi-finals of the Madrid Masters, remains unbeaten in Rome semi-finals (8-0) and took his tournament record to 41-6.

After beating Nadal, Thiem said there were several reasons for his collapse on Saturday.

"I mean, first of all, they are different type of players. Against Novak, it's really tough for me to play, because he doesn't give me any time," he explained.

"I don't really like to play against him, because he has a game style which doesn't fit me at all."

In the WTA event, French Open champion Garbine Muguruza was forced to retire due to a neck injury from her semi-final against Ukraine's Elina Svitolina.

The Spanish 3rd seed was 1-4 down after just 22 minutes in the first set when she quit, handing the 8th-seeded Svitolina a place in Sunday's final against Romania's Simona Halep.

Svitolina will chase a 4th title of the year after trophy triumphs in Taiwan, Dubai and Istanbul.

Muguruza had needed 3 sets to beat Venus Williams in the quarter-finals on Friday night.

"I didn't want to leave Rome without trying to play," said Muguruza.

6th-seeded Halep, the champion in Madrid last weekend, reached her first final in Rome after sweeping aside Dutchwoman Kiki Bertens 7-5, 6-1.

"Sometimes a win over a top player gives you confidence," Halep said after her semi-final.

"Sometimes the work you do before the tournaments gives you confidence that you are ready to go. Sometimes just winning some matches, tough ones, even if in 3 sets, those are the most important matches." – Rappler.com

LONDON, UK – Floyd Mayweather Jr. said on Saturday, May 20, a fight against UFC champion Conor McGregor is "90 percent" likely—if he boxes again. 

The retired undefeated 5-weight world champion, who has not boxed since September 2015, admits he wants to fight Irishman McGregor rather than any boxer in a clash that would attract global interest and could set new records for pay-per-view revenue. 

UFC lightweight champion McGregor, 28, last week applied for a boxing licence in Nevada and there has been mounting speculation the pair will meet in the boxing ring this year.

American Mayweather, 40, broke his silence on ending his retirement and trying to extend his perfect record to 50-0 against McGregor, who has a UFC record of 21 wins and 3 defeats.

"If I do fight, there's a 90 per cent chance it's against Conor McGregor," Mayweather told a news conference on Saturday night at the Copper Box Arena in London. 

"The only sort of numbers I worry about are pay-per-view numbers. I have to see what the next move is."

Critics have claimed it would be a mismatch, but Mayweather insists it is the biggest fight to be made in boxing and mixed martial arts.

"The only fight that makes sense to me is the McGregor fight," Mayweather said. 

"I've accomplished everything (else) I want to accomplish. Conor McGregor is professional and so am I. He's a stand-up fighter and I'm a stand-up fighter. He kicks ass in the octagon and I kick ass in the boxing ring. 

"The fans demand that fight and you have to give the fans what they want to see."

Mayweather, who was sport's biggest earner before he retired following his win over Andre Berto in September 2015, will discuss fighting McGregor with his advisor Al Haymon when he returns to America next week.

"I'm over here right now, working, always working," said Mayweather, who outpointed Manny Pacquiao in boxing's richest fight in Las Vegas in May 2015.

"When I get back to the US I will call Al [Haymon] and see what our next move is, there's no rush. I have to put my team together.

"The only thing I'm chasing right now is my own record. When the times comes I will get the team together." – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - An interim championship fight ended in bizarre fashion, but the gloved action was not nearly as controversial as what came afterwards.

Andre Dirrell, a 2004 U.S. Olympian, was ruled unable to continue after being knocked down after the bell to end the eighth round against Jose Uzcategui Saturday, May 20 (Sunday Manila time) at the MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. At the time of stoppage, Uzcategui (26-2, 22 knockouts) was ahead on two cards - 77-75 and 77-74 - and even at 76-76 on the third.

The result gave Dirrell the interim IBF super middleweight title, but what followed would overshadow everything.

Leon Lawson Jr, an uncle and cornerman of the boxer from Flint, Michigan, sucker punched Uzcategui with his bare fist. Lawson left the arena but was being sought by Prince George's County Police on first and second degree assault charges, according to a police report posted by Uzcategui's adviser Sean Gibbons.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="und" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/danrafaelespn">@danrafaelespn</a> <a href="https://t.co/6DnTkNJxgm">pic.twitter.com/6DnTkNJxgm</a></p>&mdash; Sean Gibbons (@KnuckleheadSean) <a href="https://twitter.com/KnuckleheadSean/status/866157637116854272">May 21, 2017</a></blockquote>
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Uzcategui was placed under police protection, according to a report on ESPN, and Dirrell issued an apology for Lawson's behavior afterwards.

"I'm sorry for what my coach has done," Dirrell (26-2, 16 KOs) said. "My coach is my family, my uncle, and he was worried. He cares for me. He loves me. Please forgive him."

This isn't the first incident where a boxer was assaulted afterwards, Light heavyweight boxer James Butler spent 4 months in prison for sucker-punching Richard Grant after Grant beat him in a 2001 fight. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The hashtag #MIKApitana trended as soon as the news of former De La Salle University Lady Spikers star Mika Reyes’s appointment as national team captain for the Southeast Asian Games was disclosed. The former Taft standout was tasked to lead the Philippine team in this year’s Games, following the announcement of the 18-man lineup on Friday, May 19. 

The report, however, drew mixed reactions from the volleyball community as not everyone warmed up to the idea of Reyes at the helm.

But for national team head coach Francis Vicente, the decision wasn’t that hard for him and the rest of the coaching staff.

“Nakita ko ‘yung dedication niya sa ensayo,” said Vicente of his decision to designate the former UAAP champ as captain ball. “[Nakita ko] kung papaano siya sa teammates niya pati sa coaches.” 

(I saw her dedication during practice－ how she treats her teammates and coaches.) 

“It was my first time to meet her. Na-impress ako, nagulat ako. Pinag-usapan namin ng coaching staff, ‘yun ang unanimously lumabas－ na siya ‘yung naboto namin.” 

(It was my first time to meet her. I was impressed. I talked to the coaching staff and it was a unanimous decision.) 

Reyes stole the show in last Monday’s Clash of Heroes event, as she led the Pilipinas-Blue squad to a come-from-behind 19-25, 22-25, 25-19, 25-15, 15-10 victory against the Pilipinas-Red roster. 

The Petron star tallied 17 markers off 10 kills, 4 aces, and 3 kill blocks and landed the Player of the Game citation in the tourney. 

Hard work and positivity 

With the 18-man pool already on the table, the University of the East head coach noted that the real hard work is just beginning. 

“I’m a very passionate coach; I want results,” shared Vicente. 

“Basta trabaho lang tayo. Trabaho lang nang trabaho hanggang sa makuha natin ang tagumpay na gusto nating mangyari (We just need to do our work. We’ll work until we achieve the victory we’ve always desired)."

“Aim high, always be positive,” the veteran mentor added. “Trabaho lang; no excuses. Kahit gaano kahirap yan, no excuses (Just keep working; no excuses. No matter how hard it gets, [there should be] no excuses.) 

Aby Maraño, Reyes’ teammate during their collegiate days, likewise took time to extend her gratitude for a;; the fans’ unending support for the national team. 

“Sa lahat po ng mga Pilipino na sumusuporta po sa team namin, maraming salamat po. Sana po tuloy ang suporta 'nyo. Hindi 'nyo alam kung gaanong kalaking impact ang nabibigay 'nyo sa aming mga atleta.” 

(To all Filipinos who support our team, thank you very much. I hope you continue to support us. You don’t know the huge impact you guys make for us athletes.) 

“Alam namin sa hirap at ginhawa, nandiyan pa rin kayo. Whether manalo or matalo, andyan kayo. Maraming salamat po (We know that through thick and thin, win or lose, you guys will always be there. Thank you very much)." －Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The University of Santo Tomas Growling Tigers claimed their first win in the 2017 Filoil Flying V Preseason Premiere Cup, as they defeated the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta Altas, 63-55, on Sunday, May 21, at the Filoil Flying V Arena.

The Growling Tigers started aggressive and captured a 12-4 advantage with 4:49 minutes remaining in the first quarter. But as they failed to be consistent, the Altas took advantage and went on a 9-0 run to close the first quarter in their favor, 13-12.

UPHSD tried to hold on to their one-point lead but UST managed to make it even at halftime, 27-all, after limiting the shooting of the Las Piñas-based squad.

The España-based 5 erupted in the 3rd quarter as Carlos Escalambre released two consecutive treys that lifted UST's spirit, followed by several straight fast break points to spark a 14-2 cushion.

The Altas tried to overcome a 14-point deficit in the last canto and managed to trim UST's lead to 8 points, 60-52, with 56 seconds remaining.

However, the Growling Tigers continued to remind the Altas that they had the victory in the bag, punctuated with a Steve Akomo slam as the clock was down to just 18.9 seconds.

Akomo ended the match with a double-double of 11 points and 18 rebounds. Escalambre chipped in 10 points while Wendell de Guzman and Zach Huang had 9 points apiece.

UST now has a 1-3 win-loss record, while UPHSD dropped to 1-2.

"This is the start," said UST assistant coach Tylon Dar Juan. "This win will definitely give the boys more confidence for our next games."

UST head coach Boy Sablan was not seen on the court on Sunday. According to Juan, Sablan was at home "resting."

Meanwhile, the Far Eastern University Tamaraws also bagged a win over the Arellano University Chiefs, 87-81, to retain an immaculate 2-0 card.

Prince Orizu topscored for the Tamaraws with 14 points, 7 rebounds, and two blocks, while RJ Ramirez and Hubert Cani contributed 12 markers apiece.

The University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons also thumped the College of Saint Benilde Blazers, 77-70. The win boosted UP to a 2-0 record but gave Benilde its 4th heartbreak in the preseason tourney. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - Milan Melindo's dream of becoming a world champion has finally come true.

The 29-year-old from Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines made good in his third attempt at a world title, dropping Akira Yaegashi 3 times in the first round to win the IBF junior flyweight title Sunday, May 21 at the Ariake Colosseum in Tokyo, Japan. The time of stoppage was 2:45 of the first round.

Melindo (36-2, 13 knockouts) is now the fourth current world champion from the Philippines, joining Donnie Nietes, Manny Pacquiao and Jerwin Ancajas. He's the third ever world champion from the ALA Boxing stable, after Nietes and Merlito Sabillo.

Melindo had told Rappler of his intense training leading up to the fight, which included sparring 22 consecutive rounds on one day to build up his stamina. Melindo had fallen short in two previous attempts at a world title, losing decisions to Juan Francisco Estrada and Javier Mendoza for the unified flyweight title and IBF junior flyweight title in 2013 and 2015, respectively.

Yaegashi, a former 3-division champion, drops to 25-6 (13 KOs) with the loss. It is just the third time that Yaegashi had been stopped, after Roman Gonzalez and Pedro Guevara did the job in 2014 in back-to-back fights. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Rookie guard Reden Celda and the more experienced playmaker LA Revilla conspired to lift the Mahindra Floodbuster over the Phoenix Fuel Masters in a hard-fought overtime victory, 122-121, on Sunday, May 21, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Revilla paced Mahindra with a career-high 26 points on 10-of-14 field goals on top of 5 assists, 4 rebounds, and two steals.

Celda similarly had a career game with 25 points on 11-of-17 shooting, but more importantly, he was responsible for the game-winning floater that permanently shoved the Floodbuster ahead and notched the final tally with 21 seconds left in overtime.

Celda, who played for National University in the UAAP, sank the winner after luring import Jameel McKay to the corner and then blurring past him for the baseline one-hander.

The win gave Mahindra a 3-7 record and a chance at possibly making the playoffs. 

Mahindra import Keith Wright posted 18 points and grabbed 21 rebounds, while Eric Camson came off the bench for 17 markers.

McKay led Phoenix with 18 points, 12 rebounds, 7 assists, and 3 blocks. Matthew Wright settled right back into his mother ballclub after a successful national team stint, putting up 17 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists.

RJ Jazul and Mark Borboran each had 15 points for the now 4-6 Fuel Masters.

Scores: 

Mahindra (122): Revilla 26, Celda 25, Wright 18, Camson 17, Khobuntin 13, Deutchman 6, Teng 6, Corpuz 4, Nimes 3, Salva 2, Caperal 1, Paniamogan 1, Yee 0, Ballesteros 0. 

Phoenix (121): McKay 18, Wright 17, Alolino 16, Borboran 15, Jazul 15, W. Wilson 10, Baguio 9, Intal 7, Eriobu 6, Dehesa 4, Kramer 2, Torres 2, Lanete 0. 

Quarter scores: 27-30, 58-62, 93-93, 116-116,122-121.

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – This time, they finished the job.

Barangay Ginebra San Miguel avoided a second consecutive collapse and overcame their Philippine Cup rivals San Miguel Beermen, 107-99, in the 2017 PBA Commissioner's Cup on Sunday, May 21, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

The Gin Kings were quick to learn their lesson after a costly meltdown against the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters two days ago, successfully closing out the Beermen in a rematch of last conference's finals.

LA Tenorio led a strong 9-0 start for Ginebra that exhibited the team's strong sense of urgency to keep its name in consideration for the top two slots with twice-to-beat advantages in the playoffs. Both teams now hold identical 6-2 records.

Justin Brownlee produced 34 points with 12 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 blocks in spite of foul trouble. Tenorio redeemed himself after a 4-point showing a couple of days ago with 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 8 assists.

Scottie Thompson and Joe Devance poured 18 and 16 points, respectively, with Thompson making it a double-double finish with additional 11 rebounds.

After setting the tone early, Ginebra went on to lead by as many as 20 points, moving the ball better than its foe and pushing the pace to its liking. The Gin Kings also moved the ball better, posting a 30-18 advantage in assists.

But while the Beermen never tasted the lead, they still seriously threatened their sister team several times in the second half – none closer than trailing by just 90-93 after an Alex Cabagnot 3-pointer with 2:50 to play.

Having gained plenty of confidence for the previous 45 minutes, Ginebra responded well to the adversity, rattling off 5 straight points for the 8-point cushion that later on stretched to 10.

The Gin Kings staved off the Beermen despite missing Japeth Aguilar, who fouled out in the fourth with just 5 points and 5 rebounds to his name.

Charles Rhodes topscored for San Miguel with 26 points, 8 rebounds, 4 steals, and two blocks. But the import also turned the ball over 9 times.

Arwind Santos tried to carry San Miguel with his 19 points on 7-of-21 shots to go with 13 rebounds. Cabagnot chipped in 20 markers and 7 boards, while June Mar Fajardo settled for a 13-point, 14-rebound, 5-block game.

San Miguel was a woeful 39% from the field.

Scores:

Ginebra (107): Brownlee 34, Tenorio 20, Thompson 18, Devance 16, Aguilar 5, Ferrer 5, Mercado 3, Marcelo 2, Cruz 2, Caguioa 2, Ellis 0.

San Miguel (99): Rhodes 26, Cabagnot 20, Santos 19, Fajardo 13, Lassiter 10, Ross 7, Espinas 4, Heruela 0, Semerad 0. 

Quarter scores: 31-15, 52-39, 80-65, 107-99.

– Rappler.com

ROME, Italy – Germany's Alexander Zverev stunned 4-time Rome champion Novak Djokovic 6-4, 6-3 to win his first Masters title on Sunday, May 21, confirming his status as a French Open dangerman.

The 20-year-old Zverev claimed his maiden Masters 1000 title after becoming the youngest player in a decade to reach a final at this level and will move to 10 in the world as a result of his impressive victory.

Djokovic, who turns 30 on Monday, May 22, was the previous youngest Masters finalist, going all the way to the title in Miami as a 19-year-old in 2007.

But despite a clinical straight sets win over Austrian Dominic Thiem on Saturday, May 20, world number two Djokovic produced a flawed performance on center court that saw him curse and swear as he struggled to find a way back into the match.

Overall, Djokovic had 27 unforced errors to 14 for Zverev, who also had 16 winners to the Serb's 11.

Zverev now has 4 career titles, 3 of which have come this year while Djokovic was denied what would have been a record 31st Masters title.

"Playing against Novak, one of the best players to ever play – it was an honor being on the court with you," said Zverev, the first player born in the 1990s to win a Masters title.

"You're an amazing player. Unfortunately this week you didn't win, but I'm sure as we get closer to Paris you'll be one of the favorites for the title."

Zverev broke in the first game of the final on his way to the first set and carved out the crucial first break of the second set in the third game.

Djokovic's frustrations boiled over when he was handed a warning for an audible obscenity in the eighth game before he was broken again in the ninth as Zverev celebrated his first Masters title.

"I wish you go on to win many of these titles," Djokovic told the young German.

"Yesterday I played what I thought was one of the best matches of my life on clay. Today I played something else. But that's sport."

Despite the defeat, Djokovic will start the French Open, which gets underway next Sunday, May 28, as one of the leading favorites having completed the career Grand Slam in Paris in 2016. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - The country's dream trio.

The Philippines is set to conquer the global stage as it will be represented by former De La Salle University Archer Jeron Teng, two-time UAAP MVP Kiefer Ravena and Kobe Paras in the FIBA 3x3 World Cup 2017 on June 17-21 at Nantes, France.

Former Far Eastern University Tamaraw skipper Raymar Jose will be the team's 4th man.

{source} <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">How far do you think <a href="https://twitter.com/_kokoparas">@_kokoparas</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/kieferravena">@kieferravena</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/jeronteng">@jeronteng</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/raymarjose6">@raymarjose6</a> will lead Philippines at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/3x3WC?src=hash">#3x3WC</a>?<br><a href="https://t.co/jf59NmRRxH">https://t.co/jf59NmRRxH</a> <a href="https://t.co/GAzKEa60IK">pic.twitter.com/GAzKEa60IK</a></p>&mdash; FIBA3x3 (@FIBA3x3) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIBA3x3/status/865511610311360512">May 19, 2017</a></blockquote>
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"I'm happy to be able to play 3-on-3 again for the country," said Teng who also played in the Youth Olympics with Ray Parks and Mike Tolomia. "We're very positive and optimistic about this tournament."

According to Teng, they just started day one of their practice on Saturday, May 20 and will be working on with their chemistry as a team in the coming days.

"I've been teammates with Kiefer before. Kobe, well, I'm just excited for this," said the slasher Teng, who currently plays in the PBA D-League's Flying V Thunder.

Teng and Ravena were together representing the Philippines in a 3x3 exhibition game back in 2015.

Meanwhile, the 19-year old Paras will be the youngest player on the roster with the largest 3x3 experience as he participated in two FIBA 3x3 U18 World Cups and bagged two gold medals in the Dunk Contest.

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Team Philippines will be mentored by former National University and current Flying V Thunder's head coach Eric Altamirano against host country France, El Salvador, Romania and Slovenia.

"We're still finding time to practice thrice a week since they also have classes," said coach Altamirano.

The Philippines finished 9th overall in their first appearance in the event last year. – Rappler.com

ROME, Italy - American World Superbike rider Nicky Hayden, hit by a car in a bicycle accident in Italy last week, has died of his injuries, the Italian hospital where he was treated said Monday, May 22.

Hayden, 35, who won the 2006 MotoGP world title, suffered severe chest and head injuries in the accident, which happened while he was training on his bicycle in central Italy, south of the seaside resort of Rimini.

Photographs published by local media outlets after Wednesday's crash showed substantial damage to the front windscreen of the car and the bicycle.

Hayden, nicknamed "The Kentucky Kid", raced for Honda in MotoGP from 2003 to 2015, before moving to the Superbike World Championship for the 2016 season.

Hayden won just three grands prix in MotoGP - all in 2005-06 - but he famously took the world title that season after fighting tooth-and-nail with Valentino Rossi's Yamaha.

His death comes exactly a month after veteran Italian professional cyclist Michele Scarponi was killed after being hit by a van while out on a training ride on roads near his home.

Honda teammate Stefan Bradl said he was "deeply touched and saddened".

"It was an honor to share the garage with you. My thoughts are with his family. We will never forget you #69 RIP."

Dani Pedrosa, Hayden's teammate in 2006 when he won the world title, posted a photo on twitter of the American along with the words "Always in my heart, champ. RIP Nicky. #69."

Honda added: "Nicky passed away at 19:09 CEST this evening at Maurizio Bufalini Hospital in Cesena, Italy. His fiancee Jackie, mother Rose and brother Tommy were at his side.

"Throughout his career Nicky’s professionalism and fighting spirit was greatly valued and carried him to numerous successes, including his childhood dream of being crowned MotoGP World Champion with Honda in 2006.

"As well as being a true champion on the track, Nicky was a fan favourite off it due to his kind nature, relaxed demeanour, and the huge smile he invariably carried everywhere.

"Nothing says more about Nicky’s character than the overwhelming response expressed by fellow racers and his legions of fans over the past few days. Jackie and his family are truly grateful for the countless prayers and well wishes for Nicky."

Hayden's brother Tommy added: "Although this is obviously a sad time, we would like everyone to remember Nicky at his happiest – riding a motorcycle. He dreamed as a kid of being a pro rider and not only achieved that but also managed to reach the pinnacle of his chosen sport in becoming World Champion. We are all so proud of that.

"Apart from these ‘public’ memories, we will also have many great and happy memories of Nicky at home in Kentucky, in the heart of the family. We will all miss him terribly." – Rappler.com

MADRID, Spain - Real Madrid won their 33rd La Liga title and first for 5 years as Cristiano Ronaldo's 40th goal of the season helped seal a 2-0 victory at Malaga on Sunday, May 21.

Ronaldo got Madrid off to the perfect start after just two minutes before Karim Benzema's close-range finish sealed the title 10 minutes into the second half.

Madrid beat out Barcelona at the top of the table by 3 points as the Catalans' come-from-behind 4-2 victory over Eibar in outgoing coach Luis Enrique's last home game in charge wasn't enough for a 3rd straight title.

"It is the happiest day of my professional life by a distance," said Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane.

"I have experienced it as a player and that is why I say it is the happiest day of my professional life because being a coach changes everything.

"I have won everything with this club, this shirt but to win La Liga is the best of all."

Real needed just a point to be assured of the title and any lingering nerves were dispelled within seconds.

Isco latched upon a poor clearance from Luis Hernandez and his sumptuous through ball freed Ronaldo to round Carlos Kameni and fire into an empty net.

"On a collective level I think it is my best season at Real Madrid," added Ronaldo. "Everyone has played minutes and all the squad have contributed."

Malaga's attitude ahead of the game had been questioned after comments by their coach Michel that he would have preferred his former club had won the league before their visit to La Rosaleda to give them a guard of honour.

However, the hosts showed why they had taken 13 points from their previous five games as the first half wore on.

Keylor Navas produced a stunning save to prevent Sandro Ramirez from doing former employers Barca a favor with a superb free-kick.

Sandro then saw another fierce effort deflect inches wide off Keko, who then had a great chance himself when he headed over unmarked from 10 yards out.

However, Benzema made sure of the title early in the second half when he swept home the loose ball after Kameni had saved Ramos's first effort.

In Barcelona, Enrique was given a warm send-off at the Camp Nou as he was greeted with a giant banner reading: "One of us forever".

And Barca at least salvaged some pride by fighting back from 2-0 down to avoid a first ever defeat against Eibar.

"The team did many things well this season, but the line that separates triumph form defeat is very small," said Enrique.

The former Barca captain has won 8 trophies in 3 seasons in charge and can add another one with the Copa del Rey final to come against Alaves next weekend.

"I am fortunate because they believe in me here as a player and as a coach," he added. "The overall evaluation can only be positive."

Japanese midfielder Takashi Inui had Eibar dreaming as he hit a pair of sweetly struck half-volleys in off the underside of the crossbar either side of half-time.

However, David Junca turned into his own net after Neymar had hit the post to start Barca's revival 25 minutes from time.

Yoel Rodriguez produced an incredible save to deny Lionel Messi from the penalty spot moments later.

Barca weren't to be denied a 6th straight win to end the season though as Luis Suarez bundled home from close range before Messi made amends with his second penalty 15 minutes from time.

And Messi rounded off the scoring with his 53rd goal of the season in stoppage time. – Rappler.com

MADRID, Spain - Barcelona face a summer of reconstruction after their grip on the La Liga title was ended by newly-crowned champions Real Madrid.

Here five key issues the Catalans have to address in the coming months to gain ground on their rivals from the Spanish capital.

New deal for Messi

Undoubtedly Barca's number one priority is to ensure that Lionel Messi's future remains at the Camp Nou.

Barca's failure to win La Liga or the Champions League this season has been no fault of Messi.

The 5-time World Player of the Year has been at his brilliant best in carrying his side for large parts of the campaign, most notably in scoring twice to win a thrilling El Clasico 3-2 away to Madrid last month.

Messi's contract is up in June 2018 meaning he could freely speak to other clubs as early as January about moving on a free transfer.

Thankfully for Barca that doesn't seem likely with Messi very much settled at the club where he has spent his whole career.

However, by allowing his contract to run down, it will cost the Barca board a fortune to tie Messi down which could impact on their ability to make moves in the transfer market.

Appoint a new coach

Luis Enrique took the heat out of the debate surrounding his future back in March by announcing he will not stay on as coach for next season after three years in charge.

Plenty of high-profile names were then linked with the job, but all signs indicate the Barca hierarchy will opt for the understated option of Athletic Bilbao's Ernesto Valverde as the man to step into the breach.

Valverde doesn't have the glamor the likes of Enrique or Pep Guardiola had when taking the job, but like them he is a former Barca player and has a wealth of experience in La Liga as a coach with over 400 games in charge of Bilbao, Espanyol, Valencia and Villarreal.

Reconstruct the midfield

Barca have undergone a dramatic change in style in recent years from Guardiola's team of metronomic passers built around Xavi and Andres Iniesta in midfield, to a top heavy side reliant on the firepower of Messi, Luis Suarez and Neymar up front.

With Xavi gone and Iniesta playing a far more limited number of games at 33, Barca's attempts to find successors for two of the greatest players in the club's history have understandably ran into problems.

Andre Gomes has so far proven to be an expensive mistake at 35 million euros ($39.2 million), as has Arda Turan and graduates from the club's academy like Rafinha and Denis Suarez are better in wider roles.

Losing Thiago Alcantara to Bayern Munich 4 years ago is now coming back to bite as finding a true midfield gem to gradually fulfill Iniesta's role will be an expensive and challenging process.

Right-back a priority

Before the midfield, Barca's first priority in the transfer market is a right-back.

Poor planning also let Dani Alves go for free to Juventus at the end of last season and his scintillating form allied to Barca's inability to replace him has been another stick with which to beat Barca's beleaguered board.

Sergi Roberto has deputised as best he can, but he remains a converted midfield player and exposed defensively when faced with real quality.

Injection of young blood

Barca also missed out on the title because Madrid were able to field a team filled with young back-ups for various games down the stretch to rest their first team stars without suffering any dip in performance.

By contrast, Barca face the problem of fending off the ageing process with most of their key men.

Messi, Suarez and Gerard Pique all turn 30 this year, whilst Javier Mascherano and Iniesta are already well beyond that mark.

Indeed, only Neymar, Samuel Umtiti, Roberto and Marc-Andre ter Stegen can count themselves as regulars with their prime years still ahead of them. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines has finished bridesmaid to Thailand once again, settling for a second place spot in the 2017 ASEAN Football Federation U15 girls championship. Coach Marielle Benitez's girls rolled into the final undefeated before stumbling to the Thais 6-2 in the championship game on Saturday, May 20 in Vientiane, Laos.

The Pinays downed Indonesia 2-0, then defeated Cambodia and Singapore 3-0 in their round-robin group to book a semis spot. A gutsy come-from-behind 3-2 semifinal victory against Myanmar got them into the final.

Talking points abound in this accomplishment, the third time that the Philippines has reached the final match of an international girls tournament and lost to Thailand in recent memory.

Preparation. Thailand's team prepared for this tournament for a full 6 months, according to PH midfielder KC Zalamea. That pales in comparison to the 5 weeks the Philippine team had to get ready. 

Zalamea says she follows some of the Thai players on social media and she notices that some study in the same school too, which only helps cohesion even further. 

But the Filipinas certainly made the most of that month of training. They held a camp in Los Baños, Laguna where they sharpened themselves against boys teams. They lost to Perpetual Help 2-1 and fell to another boy's side coached by Aeyh Fabroada, 5-2. 

In the beginning of their camp they met a U13 side of boys from the Makati Football School and were dismantled 8-1. When they tussled with them again before jetting off for Laos the final score was 3-3, an almost night-and-day improvement. 

Benitez also got her team to play boys teams from the Football Funatics program. They drew one match 0-0 but can't recall the score of the other one. 

The team also played two collegiate women's teams, beating Ateneo 6-3 and FEU 1-0.

Youth players need 30-40 11-a-side matches a year to get the experience to become elite players. These friendlies are a huge boost.

Coaching. This was Benitez's first go at a head coaching job in international competition and she says she learned a lot about "preparing a team tactically, mentally, emotionally, and physically." 

The girls had numerous team building activities that the coach felt were key in instilling togetherness in the squad. 

One of them involved asked the girls, who were split into groups, to cross an 8 meter area while standing on just two pieces of bond paper. Teamwork was crucial in making it work. 

Another had the teams split up into groups and given eggs. They needed to create cushioning for the egg that could protect the egg from an 8 foot drop. One team pulled it off, with their egg surviving the plunge. These "kumbaya" moments helped create an unshakeable bond within the team. 

Benitez and the other coaches also noted that many of the provincial girls, so shy in the beginning of the camp, opened up and came out of their shells near the end of the campaign. Benitez singles out Cebuana goalie Riza Mae Ugbaniel as one example of this phenomenon, along with Lorjane Aludos, a center back from Baguio. 

Their newfound confidence translated to better character on the park. "Even when we got scored on and Myanmar took the lead, you could see that none of them bowed their heads," said the coach. 

“We were more attacking this time, and the chemistry was stronger this year,” says Collatos. 

Benitez can take plenty of credit. 

“She is really good with words. She really knows how to boost our spirits.” says Zalamea of the coach's motivational skills. 

The American connection. There were 6 Filipina-American girls in the squad. Four of them, Gabi Collatos, Shelon Cruces, Arianna Le Page, and Katelyn Alexander, were veterans of last year's U14 national team. 

But newcomers Myria Garcia and Viviana Cera shone as well. Vera deserves special mention. Last year the Nevadan tried out and was cut. This year she came back stronger and faster and easily made the team. 

Cera proceeded to score the first goal against Indonesia and get the Man Of The Match award in the win. She also scored against Thailand. Talk about grit and determination. 

Garcia notched 3 goals, none better than the audacious long-range game-winner in the semifinal against Myanmar. See it here.

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Provincial representation. While most of the Philippine-born players came from Manila, the coaching staff scoured the countryside for talent. There are girls from Baguio, Cebu, and Davao on this team. Althea Rebosura, who comes from Roy Moore's Payatas FC, is also a notable selection. She has made it all the way from a challenging childhood to play for her country. 

Different members of the coaching staff made an effort to attend tryouts and Festivals of Football (FOFs) in Dipolog, Bicol, Laguna, San Carlos, and the aforementioned areas. 

What's next. The Philippines continues to make strides in girls and women's football. PFF General Secretary Ed Gastanes revealed on Monday's press conference that a PFF U16 girls tournament is likely before the end of this year, involving either schools, clubs, or both. The matches will be 11-a-side and 80 minutes long. 

The PFF Women's League, on hiatus since the beginning of the UAAP season, will restart on May 27. 

Who knows what the ceiling is for Pinay football. The AFC U16 championships for girls take place next year, a qualifier for the U17 Women's World Cup in 2019. Hopefully this batch can stay together for that.

Like that egg that survived the 8-foot fall in training camp, Philippine women's football seems quite unbreakable at this moment. – Rappler.com 

Follow Bob on Twitter @PassionateFanPH.

PARIS, France - Germany's Alexander Zverev broke into the Top 10 of the latest ATP rankings released on Monday, May 22, a day after stunning world number two Novak Djokovic to win the Rome Masters.

The 20-year-old Zverev claimed his maiden Masters 1000 title on Sunday with a straight sets win over 4-time Rome champion Djokovic.

It was just a 4th career title and 3rd this year for Zverev who moves up 7 places to 10 ahead of the French Open at Roland Garros from May 28 to June 7.

The top 10 remains unchanged with Britain's Andy Murray world number one ahead of Serb Djokovic, the reigning Roland Garros champion.

Argentine Juan Martin del Potro moves up 4 places to 30th after reaching the Rome quarter-finals.

Here are the current ATP Rankings:

1. Andy Murray (GBR) 10,370 pts

2. Novak Djokovic (SRB) 7,445

3. Stan Wawrinka (SUI) 5,445

4. Rafael Nadal (ESP) 5,375

5. Roger Federer (SUI) 5,035

6. Milos Raonic (CAN) 4,360

7. Dominic Thiem (AUT) 4,145

8. Marin Cilic (CRO) 3,765

9. Kei Nishikori (JPN) 3,560

10. Alexander Zverev (GER) 3,150 (+7)

11. David Goffin (BEL) 3,055 (-1)

12. Grigor Dimitrov (BUL) 2,900 (-1)

13. Jo-Wilfried Tsonga (FRA) 2,870 (-1)

14. Tomas Berdych (CZE) 2,780 (-1)

15. Jack Sock (USA) 2,415 (-1)

16. Gaël Monfils (FRA) 2,365 (-1)

17. Lucas Pouille (FRA) 2,320 (-1)

18. Roberto Bautista (ESP) 2,155 (+2)

19. Nick Kyrgios (AUS) 2,155 (-1)

20. Albert Ramos (ESP) 2,065 (-1)

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines - It was Milan Melindo’s crowning moment, the culmination of a 12-year journey in the professional ranks to him raising the world title as champion. Melindo lived up to his “El Metodico” nickname Sunday, May 21, patiently stalking Akira Yaegashi before seizing his moment, scoring 3 knockdowns in the first round to lift the IBF junior flyweight title in Tokyo, Japan. 

Melindo winning a world title in his third title shot was the feel-good moment this year of Philippine boxing. But instead of families huddling around the television and celebrating the ascension of one of Philippine boxing’s favorite sons, many found out the result through social media and online news sites.

Few in the Philippines had seen it live, navigating sites written in kanji characters to find a lagging live stream. Later, video from Fuji TV (which aired the fight live in Japan) circulated through social media, but there’s a difference between watching in real time and watching on YouTube hours afterwards when you already know the result.

The fight was initially advertised to be shown live by Sky Cable On Demand for P99, and on same-day delay by ABS-CBN Sports & Action as a special "Pinoy Pride Presents” airing, with the fight being in the ring at 6:15 pm local time and aired at 8 pm.

But the day before the fight, ALA Promotions issued an email that the fight would possibly be shown in the next two weeks instead due to unspecified “technical issues.” 

An ABS-CBN spokesperson texted this writer to inform that the fight would instead be shown on Sports & Action at 8 pm on Sunday, May 28 - a full week after the 165-second fight took place. This writer asked in the message why the fight was not shown as originally advertised, but that question was not answered.

ALA president Michael Aldeguer said he didn’t know why the broadcast plans were changed other than the “technical issues” cited, and conceded that the fight being delayed detracted from the moment.

“I was very frustrated because I knew the plan. It was initially live. Just a couple of days before the event, some problems came out that they can’t show it live. It took a lot away of the spark of what the fight was, and we needed that,” said Aldeguer.

By showing the fight at a significant delay, it sends the message that the fight was not important. It shortchanged the warrior from Cagayan de Oro of the moment when his fans back home could celebrate in the streets, and makes the coronation of a genuine star seem like an afterthought. Sports fans would not tolerate a UAAP basketball game being shown two weeks later. Why then should they be expected to tolerate that of a world championship fight? 

The sport is in serious trouble in the Philippines, and is in danger of dropping from relevance once Manny Pacquiao retires. The recent world championship wins of Marlon Tapales, Johnriel Casimero and Jerwin Ancajas were not shown by any of the major networks in the Philippines, which is part of the reason why the country is not producing new boxing stars.

The situation is different with ABS-CBN, which has an output deal with ALA Promotions. It showed Melindo’s ascent to contention throughout the years, from his main event of Pinoy Pride 2 against Carlos Tamara in 2011, through his ups-and-downs. Not showing his world championship win is like broadcasting several seasons of Friends and then skipping the episode where Ross and Rachel finally kiss. 

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By contrast, when Donnie Nietes fought Komgrich Nantapech a few weeks back in Cebu for the vacant IBF flyweight title, a Thai TV station planned to carry the fight live. It didn't matter that Nantapech couldn't have beat Nietes if he had an extra arm. It was a world title fight and it mattered.

Whatever the reason for the fight not being shown live, the boxers and the boxing fans of this country deserve better than this.

Melindo, who arrived back in Cebu with his world title on Tuesday night, May 23, wouldn’t allow the business side of the fight to knock him off Cloud 9. 

“I wish [the fight was shown live]. I don’t know what happened but the important thing is that I won the fight,” said Melindo. – Rappler.com

Ryan Songalia is the sports editor of Rappler, a member of the Boxing Writers Association of America (BWAA) and a contributor to The Ring magazine. He can be reached at ryan.songalia@rappler.com. Follow him on Twitter @RyanSongalia.

MANILA, Philippines - A few years back, Mario Bonleon Jr had everything planned out when he left his hometown and migrated to Manila. The game plan was simple and uncomplicated: play basketball.

As soon as Bonleon was recruited by La Salle Greenhills, his eyes were set to breaking the family’s curse. “The family, including my uncles, is known in the province as basketball players but nobody has entered the PBA yet.”

Luckily, the odds were in Bonleon’s favor and his career flourished early.

The Davao-native Bonleon represented the country in various international tournaments including the SEABA Under-18 in 2012 and participating in the Asian Youth Games 3x3 tourney.

“I started playing basketball ever since I was walking,” said the 22-year old Bonleon. “This is really what I want to do.”

After bidding good bye to high school, the University of the East Red Warriors welcomed Bonleon with open arms, and a whole lot more.

“They (UE) gave me a big offer to play for the team and even said they will shoulder my brothers’ schooling,” Bonleon, who is the eldest amongst 3 siblings, said. “They also promised my dad a job plus a condo for us to use.”

Bonleon remembered his excitement to play for the Warriors and expressed it during the exclusive interview with Rappler but was in such dismay even before the UAAP season started.

“UE got me as a player but wasn’t using me at all. I didn’t like that. I wanted to be utilized as a player. I withdrew my enrollment and transferred to another school.”

The answer was quite evident as Bonleon was seen wearing UST's black-and-gold jersey for two years.

“Coach Pido (Jarencio) was asking me to play for UST even before. When I decided to switch schools, my parents and I were the ones who went to coach Pido personally and ask if I could still play,” shared the senior Bonleon.

After waiting two years due to the residency rule, Bonleon finally made his UAAP debut with the Espana-based squad. Bonleon admitted it was one of the best years of his life as a player.

Going back, the Growling Tigers ended the UAAP Season 78 in impressive fashion as they secured a finals ticket against the then-champion Far Eastern University Tamaraws.

And as a rookie, Bonleon was overjoyed.

“Ah, the crowd and support was amazing. In fact, even when I sleep at night, I could still hear the drums banging and everyone chanting,” Bonleon shared with excitement. “I pushed myself to play even with a broken hand.”

A year after the successful UAAP stint, Season 79 became UST’s worst nightmare as they finished at the bottom of the cellar.

“The support was gone. NCAA high school had more supporters than us last year. It was awful and I was burnout.”

In May 11, Bonleon had enough as he announced through his personal Twitter account he will not be playing anymore for the Growling Tigers.

{source}<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">&quot;That was never my object for someone to get killed, Why would I want to destroy something I helped build&quot; -Eminem <a href="https://t.co/iqYUcbv2Fm">pic.twitter.com/iqYUcbv2Fm</a></p>&mdash; Mario Bonleon Jr. (@embonsbonleon) <a href="https://twitter.com/embonsbonleon/status/862654045881638913">May 11, 2017</a></blockquote>
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According to an article published also on the same day by The Varsitarian, UST’s official school publication, Bonleon “lost the passion” to play.

“I didn’t want to be part of UST anymore. I will pursue my basketball career in the D-League instead.”

There are different opinions of what constitutes a good collegiate ball exit. But this, inarguably, was not one.

Everyone knows Bonleon will be skipping the upcoming UAAP Season 80. Only one question remains unanswered.

Why?

The curious case of Growling Tiger ‘Embons’

“I was lost my passion because, well, it’s okay for me if they will use someone who’s really better like Kiefer (Ravena) or Jeron (Teng),” said Bonleon who is now playing with the AMA University Titans.

“It’s okay if they won’t use me if guys like them are my teammates. But if they’re going to use someone else just because they have the money then, no.”

Bonleon also made it clear he is still passionate about basketball, as long as he isn't playing for the Growling Tigers.

“At least here (D-League), it’s one step closer to the PBA. My teacher always tells me, ‘We have our own ways and directions going to heaven.’ We have our own stories,” said Bonleon.

Ever since Boy Sablan took the place of Bong De La Cruz as UST’s head coach, Bonleon explained his playing time was cut from 16—20 minutes per game to just 8-10 minutes.

“Coach Boy (Sablan) lacks experience. The assistant coaches are the ones who take over our practices. There is something wrong with the system,” Bonleon said. “He’s not around most of the time and is busy with PBA.”

Bonleon also expressed the team’s difficulty in adapting to plays since it is usually altered, “The (coaching) staff will teach us a play then coach (Sablan) will introduce another. It’s very confusing, we can’t execute it well.”

“On the game itself, he will dictate plays and say, ‘I taught you this before,’ but in reality, he didn’t teach us any of those plays.”

The 6-foot-2 Bonleon also shared the issue started last Christmas season when he was invited to attend a party with Joco Macasaet and Renzo Subido. Surprisingly, when they reached the party, coach Pido was there together with the press.

Articles began showing up that coach Pido was interested to go back as the Growling Tigers’ head coach and it seemed like Bonleon, Macasaet and Subido were supporting him because they were present at the party.

“We didn’t know coach Pido will be there, there was no way out for us. I also didn’t know coach Pido and coach Boy had personal issues. In January, he (Sablan) wasn’t talking to us anymore. Renzo’s one of coach Boy’s star players but after that incident, he was using different players,” said Bonleon.

“I told them (Subido, Macasaet) ‘we have no hope here.’ We were being attacked personally. I was the only one who went to the party but even my brother was removed from the team.”

Bonleon’s confessions didn’t stop there as he claimed that some players pay in order to get more playing time in the league.

“The players who have money are being used more efficiently. It’s sad.”

The Sports and Wellness Management student Bonleon received news from his teammates that he wouldn’t be part of the squad anymore, “It’s okay. I’m now a senior, I can pay for my last year in college.”

But if ever Sablan will be replaced by anyone, Bonleon is certain to come back, “They told me coach Boy will be gone this May. I’ll return if they (UST) will let me.”

Despite the issues, Bonleon wishes his former team the best this UAAP Season 80.

“I hope they overcome everything they are going through now,” said Bonleon.

‘Don’t believe in Embons’

During the Growling Tigers’ first win in Filoil against the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta, one major factor of the team was missing: the head coach.

After the cagefest, UST assistant coach Tylon Dar Juan proceeded to the post-game press conference and said, “Coach Sablan is at home resting.”

When Juan was asked regarding the current Bonleon-issue, all he had to say was: “It is not true.”

“Honestly, coach Boy is kind enough to let him (Bonleon) skip practice because he has an injury so he could come back. What [Bonleon] did, he didn’t tell us he was already well and tried out for AMA,” said Juan.

Juan also claims Bonleon is turning things around against coach Sablan, and the team is hurt about the things Bonleon is saying in his interviews.

“It hurts for us because people don’t know this side of the story. We wanted him to rest,” shared Juan. “We are also aware about Bonleon saying other players are paying coach (Sablan) but honestly, coach Boy wouldn’t take in any part of that.”

Juan also addressed the issue regarding the trimming of Bonleon’s playing time. “How will he have more playing time, eh, he’s fat. Don’t believe in him.”

According to Juan, coach Sablan will also not be replaced by anyone, not even coach Jarencio, this season. – Rappler.com

LONDON, England - Major sports venues from Wembley to Headingley will beef up security after a suicide attack at a pop concert in Manchester killed 22 people including children.

There are several high-profile sports events in Britain in the coming weeks, including the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday, May 27, although there is no specific threat.

The Islamic State extremist group claimed responsibility for the bomb attack at the end of a concert by US pop star Ariana Grande at the Manchester Arena on Monday.

Britain's deadliest terror attack for 12 years took place just two days before Manchester United's Europa League final against Ajax in Stockholm.

Wednesday's game is still set to go ahead and UEFA, European football's governing body, said that "tight security arrangements" had long been in place.

"There is currently no specific intelligence which might suggest that any of the UEFA Europa League final activities in Stockholm may be the target of attacks," said a statement.

"Furthermore, a number of additional security measures were implemented following the attacks in Stockholm last April (when a hijacked truck killed 5 people)."

The statement urged fans to get to the stadium early for "detailed checks".

London's Metropolitan Police said that extra armed officers would be deployed for the FA Cup final between Arsenal and Chelsea at Wembley and the English Premiership rugby union final between Exeter and Wasps at Twickenham. 

Golf officials were meeting security experts ahead of this week’s flagship European PGA Championship event at Wentworth, southwest of London, on Thursday.

"As with any major event, security is the highest priority," Keith Pelley, the European Tour chief executive, told reporters at Wentworth.

"It was before last night and it remains so. We're in constant dialogue with the police and security services. 

"We have several meetings later on this afternoon but we are comfortable we will react the right way if in fact we need to significantly increase our security."

Britain's Chris Wood, the defending champion of the event, added: "It's horrible. I have a 3-month old (child) now and it hits harder when you know children are involved.

"It's a very sombre feeling (in the locker room) and golf seems fairly insignificant."

Crack on

At a hectic time for sport in Britain, next week sees the start of cricket's Champions Trophy tournament involving the world's top 8 one-day international sides, with matches in London, Birmingham and Cardiff.

The International Cricket Council said it too was looking at tighter security.

"We will continue to work with authorities over the coming hours and days and review our security in line with the threat levels," a statement said.

Before then, hosts England and South Africa are involved in a three-match ODI series starting at Headingley, in Leeds, on Wednesday.

South Africa team manager Dr Mohammed Moosajee said his players had "some genuine concerns" over their safety, with the Proteas set to remain in England until early August on a tour that also includes a four-Test series.

However, speaking at Headingley on Tuesday, Moosajee told reporters: "There have been guarantees put in place that security arrangements will be supplemented, starting today."

England one-day captain Eoin Morgan said cricket would not be daunted.

"I'm confident that we will crack on," he said.

"It certainly does put things in perspective for everyone in the country and around the world. 

"When it happens so close to home it hits you a little bit harder." – Rappler.com

PARIS, France - Roland Garros organizers are confident that the absence from the 2017 French Open of Roger Federer, Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova will just be a footnote when the story of the second major of the season is told.

"The absence of these 3 stars does not weaken the tournament because Roland Garros remains an institution and the Holy Grail for a player," French tennis historian Jean-Christophe Piffau.

"The Grand Slam tournaments are anchored in the history of tennis, which is what makes them both special and prized."

With that in mind, we look at the storylines likely to dominate the French Open which starts on Sunday, May 28.

Perfect 10 for Nadal?

This year Nadal has captured a 10th Monte Carlo Masters and 10th title in Barcelona; now the great Spaniard targets what many in the sport thought was impossible: a 10th Roland Garros.

The champion in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014, Nadal, now 30, was written off when he lost to Novak Djokovic in the 2015 quarter-finals, ending a 39-match win streak in Paris since his shock defeat to Robin Soderling in 2009.

Last year, he played two rounds before a wrist injury forced an early withdrawal.

But he has been rejuvenated in 2017, reaching the Australian Open and Miami finals and winning in Madrid for a record-equalling 30th Masters title.

Djokovic and Agassi, starstruck double act

When Djokovic completed the career Grand Slam by winning his first Roland Garros title in 2016, the Serb held all 4 majors at the same time.

But the former world number one has, by his standards, struggled since admitting motivation has been a problem.

There were signs of life when he reached the Rome Masters final last weekend where his defeat was soon relegated in significance by his appointment of US legend Andre Agassi as his new coach.

The annoucement came in the wake of Djokovic parting with long-time coach Marian Vajda earlier this month, having also ended a 3-year relationship with Boris Becker at the end of last season.

8-time major winner Agassi, who has only committed to the French Open so far, has never coached at such a level before and has been away from the sport for more than a decade since retiring in 2006.

The open French Open

Who will be the 2017 women's champion? Who knows? The champions from 2010 to 2015, Serena Williams (2013 and 2015), Maria Sharapova (2012 and 2014), Li Na (2011) and Francesca Schiavone (2010), are both absent.

Defending champion Garbine Muguruza of Spain picked up a neck injury in Rome and has won just two matches on clay all season.

World number one Angelique Kerber's best run was a 2012 quarter-final spot. This claycourt season, the German lost first time out at Rome having retired with a back injury after two matches in Madrid.

Simona Halep, the 2014 runner-up in Paris and winner in Madrid this year before being a losing finalist in Rome, looks the most likely champion-in-waiting, just.

Kvitova, Del Potro high on emotion

Out of action since injuring her left hand fighting off a knife-wielding burglar at her home in December, two-time Wimbledon champion Kvitova may yet still be a late-entry into Roland Garros where she was a semi-finalist in 2012.

She'd be a popular champion as would be Juan Martin del Potro, the giant Argentine whose huge potential, illustrated by his 2009 US Open victory, should have been the first chapter in a Grand Slam success story.

However, an agonising series of wrist injuries pushed him to the brink of retirement before a comeback last year saw him reach the Olympics final.

Practically unplayable on his day, Del Potro was a semi-finalist in Paris in 2009 but last played the tournament in 2012, losing a two sets lead to go down to Roger Federer in the quarter-finals.

Del Potro is ranked 30 this week; 12 months ago, he was down at 233. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Michael Aldeguer, the promoter for newly-crowned IBF junior flyweight champ Milan Melindo, said he hasn't yet talked with his team about their next step. What he's certain about is that he isn't interested in having Melindo fight fellow Filipino contender Randy Petalcorin.

Aldeguer, the president of the Cebu-based ALA Promotions, reacted to the renewed challenge from the camp of Petalcorin, the Davao City native who at number 4 is the highest ranked contender in the IBF rankings after number 3 Daigo Higa won the WBC title last Saturday, May 20 – the day before Melindo blew out Akira Yaegashi in one round to win his world title.

"It's all about the country now. We need more world champions, we haven't yet been at the level where Mexico is. Once we reach 10 world champions, maybe that would be a possibility," said Aldeguer about that matchup.

"The only way for the sport to grow is to have more world champions because it puts more interest to the sponsors and TV because it makes it appear to the world that we have arrived, we are good at this sport. If boxing is not given the chance to grow and fighters to fight with each other to just get one world title, look what happens to the sport. We don't need it now.

"But if it's really dictated by the boxing organizations then we have no choice."

Melindo, who arrived from Japan Tuesday night in Cebu, also rejected the fight when asked by media in Cebu.

Aldeguer had said last month after promoting the Pinoy Pride 40 card in Cebu City that he had long been interested in having the best Filipino fighters face one another, but that the network and sponsors weren't fans of it. (READ: Philippine boxing culture must change to bring excitement back)

Petalcorin's promoter Jim Claude Manangquil of the General Santos City-based Sanman Promotions sees things differently. He has called for this matchup since 2015 but fights between top Filipinos have become increasingly rare in recent times. The idea of Filipinos fighting one another is frowned upon by some, a mindset unique to the Philippines.

Manangquil thinks it has nothing to do with promoting the sport. He thinks Melindo's team wants "the easier path."

"For me Randy is the most avoided in 108 pounds," said Manangquil, who is currently in Thailand, where he received the WBC Asia Honorary Promoter of the Year award. "[WBA junior flyweight titeholder Ryoichi] Taguchi before, now Melindo. Randy can beat all these champions."

Melindo (36-2, 13 knockouts) of Cagayan de Oro City has become a star in Philippine boxing through his exposure on the Pinoy Pride series on ABS-CBN, and his win against Yaegashi earned him his first world title after two unsuccessful attempts. Petalcorin (26-2-1, 19 KOs) has had far less exposure but has earned international attention from boxing press for his southpaw punching power and smooth counter-punching style. Melindo is rated number 4 at 108 pounds by The Ring magazine while Petalcorin is number 8.

Aldeguer called Petalcorin "a great fighter" but said he would prefer it if he challenged for one of the 3 other belts, which are currently held by Japanese fighters.

"I know [Petalcorin's] gonna be a world champion for sure. But if it has to be at the expense of the other, then it won't be good for Philippine boxing at this stage," said Aldeguer.

(READ: Milan Melindo robbed of his crowning moment by TV delay)

The last time two Filipinos fought for a world championship in the Philippines was in 1925, when flyweight champion Pancho Villa defended against Clever Sencio at Wallace Field on the site of what is now known as Luneta Park. Manangquil said he will approach the New Jersey-based IBF to petition to become the mandatory challenger for Melindo’s title.

"I can't agree with some statements that Michael Aldeguer said, like we have to wait for 10 world champions before we do all-Filipino title fights," said Manangquil. "But one thing I can agree is that Petalcorin is a great fighter, and will be a world champion soon." – Rappler.com