Jeeno Thitikul shot a seven-under 64 at Royal Lytham & St Anne’s to lead the AIG Women’s Open by two after round one. Ryu and Kuwaki are the confirmed chasers after the opening day.
Michael Vaughan says a second spell as England Test captain could be exactly what Joe Root needs. The confirmed change raises immediate questions about how England balance Root’s batting value with the demands of leadership.
A Guardian analysis details how Eddie Howe’s position at Newcastle became more complicated after Alexander Isak’s departure, rushed signings, and a difficult season. The story frames a sharp shift from strong executive backing to uncertainty around the manager’s future.
Chelsea have signed Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a £52m move, while John Stones has signed a two-year contract with Inter. The confirmed deals reshape defensive options at two major clubs before the new season settles into rhythm.
A consortium led by former Newcastle United co-owner Amanda Staveley is in talks about buying a 25% stake in West Ham. The discussions are not a completed deal, but they could become a significant ownership development for a club now listed as being in the Championship.
Wales won Commonwealth Games gold in the women’s team sprint at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, beating England in the final. The result gives Wales a headline track cycling title and leaves England with silver from the direct gold-medal race.
