Lauren, Author at Trending Sport

Simone Biles says that she has no regrets at all following the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but adds that she should have withdrawn ahead of the Games. The 24-year-old suffered from the ‘twisties’ during the team final and would also withdraw from the all-around, vault, uneven bars and floor finals. She would return to win bronze on the balance beam.

Simone Biles says that she should not have competed at the Olympics.

The 24-year-old gymnast pulled out of four individual Olympic finals during Tokyo to protect her mental health after suffering from the so-called ‘twisties’. She returned to compete in the balance beam final and won a bronze medal.

Simone Biles exclusive: "I came to the realization, I can still be a wife and be out here." - Exclusive

However, in a profile with The Cut, Biles has said that given the strain she suffered in the lead up to the Olympics, she should have withdrawn from competition before the event.

“If you looked at everything I’ve gone through for the past seven years, I should have never made another Olympic team,” began Biles.

Biles, the most decorated gymnast of all time, prepared for the Olympics after coming forward as a victim of the Larry Nassar abuse scandal. That fallout continues, with Biles giving her testimony to a US Senate hearing regarding failings in the investigation and prosecution of Nassar just two weeks ago.

“I should have quit way before Tokyo, when Larry Nassar was in the media for two years. It was too much,” she adds.

However, Biles added that she would not allow the disgraced former doctor to undo years of hard work.

However, at the Games, Biles suffered with the so-called ‘twisties’, where athletes lose all perspective of where they are in the air. After pulling out of the team final after her opening vault, she later withdrew from the all-around, vault, uneven bars and floor finals.

The four-time Olympic gold medallist added that the destabilising effect of the ‘twisties’ was similar to a loss of eyesight in everyday life.

“Say up until you are 30 years old you have your complete eyesight,” she added.

Simone Biles withdraws from Olympic floor exercise final - The Japan Times

“One morning, you wake up, you can’t see s***. But people tell you to go on and do your daily job as if you still have your eyesight. You’d be lost, wouldn’t you?”

“Sometimes it’s like, yeah, I’m perfectly okay with it. Like, that’s how it works. That’s how it panned out. And then other times I’ll just start bawling at the house.”

Biles added that she would not “change anything because everything happens for a reason” despite some less than generous coverage of her decision, and the 24-year-old gymnast said that being Black will have affected that coverage.

CELEB NEWS

The crucial par-5 strategy peak Tiger Woods used—why it matters for you

Of the many statistics that Tiger Woods dominated throughout his early-career run from the late 1990s into the early 2000s, arguably none was more significant than his play on the par 5s. Tiger led the PGA Tour in par-5 scoring average in every season from 1997 through 2003, and not just by a couple hundredths. He led by wide margins, which when added up over the course of a round and a tournament, largely contributed to his dominance.

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Often we step up to the par 5s thinking that since these are the easier holes, we need to make something happen. Play aggressively, hit it close, make birdie or an easy par. Yet in trying to force good things, we actually make crucial strategic mistakes that cause our scores to balloon.

Instead of approaching a par 5 and thinking, How can I make birdie or par?, start thinking, How can I make sure I avoid bogey, double or worse? It will free you up to play less aggressively, and in turn, your scoring average will drop.

PGA Tour Players and Saudi Arabia PIF Boss Yasir Al-Rumayyan to Meet in the Bahamas, Tiger Woods Likely Attending - Sports Illustrated

2. Getting too fancy on the layup: It’s easy to lose focus on a layup shot. You’re not aiming at any specific target like the hole or middle of the green, so you lose focus and simply swing with no real intention. That’s when bad things happen. You lay it up into the rough, bunker or water. Or worse, you top or chunk it right in front of you. There’s a quick bogey or double.

Instead, be sure to pick a very specific, conservative target for your layup. Don’t force the ball too close to water, trees or other hazards. Even if that means you have a longer approach shot, that’s fine. You’re avoiding the big number.

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So, during your next round, change your par-5 mindset and adopt Tiger’s approach, and remember, it’s OK to adapt your goal to your handicap. Tiger was trying to avoid bogeys, but if you’re a 10- or 20-handicap, maybe that means trying to avoid doubles or triples on par 5s. Whatever it is, the strategy remains the same.

CELEB NEWS

“I’m Late”: After ‘Stealing’ Comment, Simone Biles Humbly Replies to a Fan

Simone Biles is savoring precious moments before her husband Jonathan Owens flies to Chicago Bears. Recently, the couple enjoyed a romantic getaway in Oahu, Hawaii. But after a happy ending to this tropical vacation, the festivity extended with the most celebrated gymnast’s birthday bash. On March 14, Simone Biles completed her 27th spring, and the occasion held a special notation with many wishes from different fans.

Recently, Olympic gymnast Simone Biles found herself at the center of a fun controversy when a fan humorously accused her of stealing the latter’s birthday. Biles didn’t wait to respond to her fan’s claim with a diplomatic approach.

Simone Biles’ love and support for her fans

The gymnastic GOAT has always shown love towards her fans. She always shares her thoughts and feelings for her fans openly. One such incident took place in April 2023, when one fan posted a video of her daughter wearing the Simone Biles × Athleta T-shirt, with the caption, “We love you”. The gymnast re-shared the post to her story with an appreciative gesture.

This wholesome nature of Simone Biles always wins hearts. Except for having so many achievements, the athlete has not lost touch with her fans and leaves no chance to do so even now. Even at the peak of her career right now, her ability to navigate such situations with grace and maturity solidifies her legacy as one of the greatest gymnasts of all time.

BOXING

Claressa Shields Praises Ryan Garcia Hitting Mitts Ahead of Devin Haney Fight

In the boxing world, eyes are on Ryan Garcia as he preps for Devin Haney. Their fight is slated for April 20th, stirring anticipation. Recently, Garcia’s behavior has sparked discussions. His social media is a mix of erratic and intriguing posts. A notable clip showed him shadowboxing in slow motion.

Derrick James, his trainer, watched, visibly annoyed by the spectacle. This wasn’t typical training footage. Yet, Claressa Shields saw potential in Garcia’s mitt-hitting session. The champion boxer shared the clip, signaling approval. Her recognition shifts the narrative, suggesting Garcia is more focused than perceived.

Ryan Garcia claims that his ’emotional clip’ was shortened to make it look different

Ryan Garcia recently addressed the misconceptions surrounding a particularly emotional clip circulating online. On his X account, he clarified the tears shed were an expression of his deep religious fervor, not mental health concerns. “Praise Jesus, those who know the Holy Spirit will make a grown man cry. You shortened the video I was worshipping God on my TikTok live with my community,” Garcia expressed, emphasizing the spiritual context misunderstood by many.

He criticized the misleading portrayal, stating, “I love God and you titled this as if I was crying due to mental instability. I find it distasteful, and disrespectful to my beliefs. But again, get your clicks and views. See you 4/20.” The Victorville native called out famed journalist Michael Benson for posting the clip to gain views. This statement also reflects Garcia’s attempt to set the record straight, reinforcing his connection to his faith over unfounded speculations.

UPDATE ;“Are You Fighting Me or Not?”: Claressa Shields Sends Separate Challenges to Alycia Baumgardner and Cris Cyborg

As Garcia continues to fight the demons, what’s more important is the upcoming Brooklyn fight between the former undisputed lightweight champion and the current WBC Super Lightweight Champion. Will this blend of vulnerability and strength propel ‘King’ to new heights? Garcia’s fight against ‘The Dream’ goes down to the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, NY.

BOXING

Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson: Everything you need to know, including rules and predictions

The much-anticipated fight between YouTube star Jake Paul and former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson is still months away at this point. However, this will not be your average, ordinary, every day fight. After all, there’s a 30-year age gap between the fighters and one of them hasn’t boxed in nearly two decades.

There were rumors early on that the fight would give heavy advantages to Paul, who has still only participated in 10 fights in his career (albeit, he’s 9-1 with six KOs). Those advantages have not been confirmed though, with some being flat out denied. Regardless, as it stands, what do experts believe will happen in the fight? Will “Iron Mike” be able to turn back the clock and show us what made him the most feared man in boxing three decades ago?

When is the Paul-Tyson bout?

The fight is slated for Saturday, July 20, 2024. The fight will take place at AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, in Arlington, TX. It will be available for streaming on Netflix.

When was the last time Paul and Tyson fought?

Paul’s last fight was a TKO victory over Ryan Bourland on March 2, 2024. It was Paul’s third win in a row, with his only career loss coming via split decision against Tommy Fury on February 26, 2023. Paul has previously fought as a cruiserweight for most of his fighting career. He will look to gain weight to classify as a heavyweight for the fight against Tyson.

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Mike Tyson, who will be 58 years old at the time of the fight, has not fought professionally since 2005, where he lost in the sixth round via corner retirement to Kevin McBride. Tyson did participate in an exhibition bout against Roy Jones Jr. on November 28, 2020. The upcoming fight against Paul has yet to be classified as an exhibition or pro match yet.

What will the rules for the fight be?

Though early rumors indicated that both Paul and Tyson would wear headgear for the fight, those rumors have since been contested by Paul’s business partner, Nakisa Bidarian.

“Unequivocally there is no headgear for Paul vs Tyson,” Bidarianwrote on Instagram. He continued. “Haters spreading fake news but it won’t stop the 10’s of millions of views.”

There were also rumors that Paul and Tyson would be using bigger gloves (18 ounces) in order to help prevent serious injury from either fighter. Those rumors have been neither confirmed nor dispelled.

Reports indicate that both Paul and Tyson want the fight to be an official professional bout, but that decision must be made by the Texas commission. As of March 19, no decision has been made.

Will there be other fights prior to the main event?

No other fights have been announced. If any other fights will join the undercard, they will be announced in the coming weeks.

Predictions:

Joe Rogan: Mike Tyson wins

During an episode of his podcast, Rogan, said regarding the Paul-Tyson fight “I don’t give a f**k if he’s 55, that’s still Mike Tyson. He trains with Rafael Cordeiro, who’s a legend in MMA. He runs Kings Mixed Martial Arts. Rafael is a world-renowned trainer. When you see him holding the mits for Tyson and Tyson is smashing the mits. Jesus! That guy can still f*** you up.”

Amir Khan: Mike Tyson by knockout

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The former world champion Khan said last week, “Is it just hype with Mike and Jake posting it at the same? This is unreal and I hope that Mike doesn’t end up hurting him because at the end of the day, I like Jake, but Mike is not a person you want to mess with or do an exhibition with, especially when you’re a lot smaller and lighter.”

Paul isn’t smaller than Tyson though. Sure, he was lighter in his last fight, but Paul has the height and reach on Tyson, so perhaps Paul has a better chance than Khan is giving him credit.

BOXING

Terence Crawford looks to have given up hopes of fighting Canelo Alvarez

Bud raised his hand to fight Canelo in September, but was ruled out because he would have to move up three divisions

Terence Crawford appears to have given up on seeking the undisputed title in three different divisions in a fight that, on paper, looked like a big money contest against Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez for the 168-pound super middleweight title.

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Canelo also moved up to welterweight, but unlike Bud, he did beat all the quality opponents – David Morrell Jr. and Caleb Plant – to get there. Crawford should be looking for such opponents first, not getting favors from Canelo, because at this point, he poses no real threat to the Mexican: if he beats him, everyone will say it was because of the significant weight difference between them.

Besides, Bud is 36 years old and is no longer at the top of his game, but is looking for big money to forge his legend.

Instead, some experts believe a fight against Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis in his own division is more feasible, unless he feels it is too risky for him.

Terence Crawford’s manager discredits possible fight against Chris Eubank Jr.

Another possible opponent is Chris Eubank, but the trainer of the undisputed welterweight champion Brian McIntyre was quite adamant that it was all “fake news”.

UPDATE ;Boxing Update: Terence Crawford Gets Special Recognition From WBO – Receives ‘Ring Of Power’

This would be a big jump for Crawford as he looks to establish himself in new divisions. However, McIntyre believes it’s just Eubank Jr. having fun with the current trend, and there has been no discussion about this fight.

BOXING

Floyd Mayweather: Bollywood is bigger than Hollywood

In a chat with HT City, the world boxing champ shares if he’d be open to do a Bollywood film, his secret skills in the ring and more.

Floyd Mayweather is in town. Which also means you don’t hold back the punches in a chat with him. The former world undisputed boxing champion is just as adept at striking up good conversation about his experiences, his love for all things Indian and of course, the secret to success, as he is on his two feet in the ring!
As part of a tour in India, he made a stop in Mumbai where a packed schedule saw him visit various landmarks like Gateway of India, Siddhivinayak Temple and other spots, including dropping in to designer Manish Malhotra’s store in Bandra.
The affable 47-year-old legend gets candid on his professional learnings, his diet and what he thinks of Bollywood, over a chat with HT City:

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Before a fight, what is your diet like?
FM: Training camp is training camp. And training camp is very serious. It’s all about how many calories you put into your body a day, so my diet is very strict: it’s lean, it’s about how cutting weight and being in the best physical shape possible. Drinking a lot of water and staying hydrated and getting a lost of rest. It’s also a 12-week process and during those 12 weeks, I’m strictly focused on conquering my opponent.

Do you enjoy Bollywood movies and who’s your favourite actor?
FM: I enjoy all movies. I do think that Bollywood is bigger than Hollywood. I am very familiar with it and with some of the big names that are out here. One thing that a lot of the Bollywood names have in common with me is that they’re fit, they’re healthy, they focus on looking good, feeling great, staying in shape and they’re great brand ambassadors for Bollywood. I wouldn’t say that I have any one favourite actor because they’re so many and they’re so talented, but Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, John Abraham, Ranveer Singh – they’re all great. I’d love to be involved in some capacity with them. Would I like to act in a Bollywood film? I’m open to any opportunity that presents itself. I know if there’s any opportunity I can be successful at it because my formula and recipe is the same for everything: If I get involved in something, I stay disciplined till I win.

BOXING

FRANCIS NGANNOU: EX-UFC HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPION LAMENTS EARLY ARRIVAL TIME BEFORE ANTHONY JOSHUA DEFEAT

Francis Ngannou claims he was tricked into getting to the arena much earlier than Anthony Joshua for their heavyweight clash in Saudi Arabia earlier this month. The former UFC champion believes his arrival time was two hours before his opponent. He says it lead to him “falling asleep” in the changing rooms, before being on the wrong end of a second round knockout.

Francis Ngannou says he was “falling asleep” before his fight against Anthony Joshua, claiming he was tricked into getting to the arena too early.

The former UFC heavyweight champion lost through a second round knockout earlier this month.

Anthony Joshua demolishes Francis Ngannou in two rounds in Riyadh | World News | Sky News

It was only his second professional boxing contest, having narrowly been beaten by Tyson Fury in 2023.

But he says he was put off by being made to get to the arena much earlier than his opponent.

“I remember being in the locker [room] trying to warm up, and it wasn’t going well,”

“I was falling asleep! I’m sweating, but I was falling asleep.

“But I’m sure that’s how some people that I have fought and have beaten have been before. No blame on anybody, the blame here is all on me.

“It’s not like I fought at 3am and he fought at like midnight or something. We both fought at 3am.

“Something that’s happened is that they get me to the arena very early. My pickup time was 10.30pm to go to the arena. And then when we get to the arena, they tell us that we are scheduled around 1.45am.

“They come to the locker room around 1 and Joshua [was just arriving]. I’m like, ‘OK, we are fighting at the same time, how come I have a pickup time?’

“We received a schedule, an email, and then for some reason I was there at least one hour before.

Anthony Joshua vs Francis Ngannou LIVE: Joshua knocks out Ngannou in brutal fashion in second round, Parker also wins | Goal.com

“They do this kind of trick to get you tired. I was like cool. I didn’t know how it was, how important that was, until the fight day that I have to get there two hours before.”

Ngannou had already announced ahead of the contest that he now plans to return to MMA to fight Renan Ferreira.

A date for the bout has yet to be confirmed, but the 37-year-old had stated he would take on the winner of Ferreira’s contest with Ryan Bader last month, which the Brazilian won by TKO in the first round.

As he prepares to return to the octagon though, Ngannou – who has stated he is not finished with boxing just yet – insists he has no regrets about how the fight with Joshua ended.

“It is the game unfortunately,” he added. “We all knew it [the knockout] could happen.

“I wasn’t seeing it happen like that, but I always knew it could happen. At least, I was always prepared for that.”

Ahh s***, here we go again' - Anthony Joshua posts GTA meme reaction to Francis Ngannou fight being signed and confirms date | talkSPORT

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BOXING

Francis Ngannou reveals true extent of Anthony Joshua’s power with worrying admission after knockout loss

Francis Ngannou doesn’t remember much about his devastating knockout loss to Anthony Joshua.

The Cameroonian MMA star’s night got off to a disastrous start when he was decked by AJ in the opening stanza.

Ngannou did well to see out the round and make his way back to his corner after such a heavy knockdown.

However, he admits he has no recollection of getting up from his stool between rounds.

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It shows him walking unaided to his dressing room where he is met by multiple family members.

“This is what we sign up for when you come to a sport like this.

“You always know that something like that can happen.

“This is a weird loss. Something that I wouldn’t like to experience, but I think it will stay as a defeat only if I don’t learn from it and come back from it.”

Ngannou has been widely commended for his humility in the face of defeat.

UPDATE ;I got stopped by Anthony Joshua during 41-fight career, but Joe Joyce’s comeback opponent is the only man who truly knocked me out

Where he goes next is presently unclear although it seems more than likely that his next fight will be in MMA.

A bout with Renan Ferreira awaits in PFL after the Brazilian MMA fighter knocked out former two-weight Bellator champion Ryan Bader last month to earn himself a shot at Ngannou.

CELEB NEWS

Ferrari hand Lewis Hamilton bad news as Christian Horner accuser update surfaces