https://www.scmp.com/rss/518266/feed Andrew Cesare Richardson is a sports journalist at the South China Morning Post, previously at ESPN and as Editor-in-Chief for 433's app. Specialising in European football, he moved to Hong Kong in early 2024, bringing extensive experience in covering diverse sports topics and events. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson Hong Kong is perfectly positioned for sports investors interested in collaborating with mainland China, the city’s sports minister Rosanna Law Shuk-pui said on Thursday. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the World Football Summit, hosted at the city’s AsiaWorld-Expo, Law highlighted the successful summer events hosted by Hong Kong as evidence that it could consider itself a regional leader in that sphere. July’s Hong Kong Football Festival at Kai Tak Stadium, which saw Liverpool face AC Milan... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3324378/hong-kong-natural-gateway-mainland-chinas-sports-fan-base-rosanna-law?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3324378/hong-kong-natural-gateway-mainland-chinas-sports-fan-base-rosanna-law?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 04 Sep 2025 12:17:40 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson Just Climb founder Danny Ho Sin-fai said on Friday he hoped the opening of a new facility at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Sports Park could attract the sport's biggest events to the city. Climbing was first included as an Olympic sport at the Tokyo Games in 2021, when there was just one event that combined the three disciplines: lead, which sees the climber ascend while clipping the rope into protection; bouldering – without a rope or harness – and speed, where the athlete attempts to reach the top as... https://www.scmp.com/sport/outdoor/article/3322016/kai-taks-new-climbing-wall-can-bring-global-scene-hong-kong-ex-pro-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/outdoor/article/3322016/kai-taks-new-climbing-wall-can-bring-global-scene-hong-kong-ex-pro-says?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 Aug 2025 01:00:20 +0000 Tom Bell,Lars Hamer,Mike Chan,Andrew Cesare Richardson,Paul McNamara Tom Bell,Lars Hamer,Mike Chan,Andrew Cesare Richardson,Paul McNamara Two further Saudi Super Cup teams arrived in Hong Kong on Friday, while Cristiano Ronaldo carried a Labubu doll and welcomed a new teammate, as the city stepped up preparations to stage the competition next week. Ronaldo and his fellow Al-Nassr players sparked excitement for a second successive day when they emerged from the Regent Hong Kong hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui on Friday morning. Having been ushered quickly inside on arrival the previous day, the Portugal captain this time stopped to sign... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3321954/saudi-super-cup-hong-kong-ronaldo-trains-rain-2-more-teams-arrive?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3321954/saudi-super-cup-hong-kong-ronaldo-trains-rain-2-more-teams-arrive?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 15 Aug 2025 05:41:59 +0000 Tom Bell,Paul McNamara,Andrew Cesare Richardson Tom Bell,Paul McNamara,Andrew Cesare Richardson Football Festival fever swept Hong Kong as Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur met in the event’s second and final match on Thursday. While the North London rivals prepared for their clash at Kai Tak Stadium, followers of the English Premier League clubs were in healthy competition off the pitch. Locally based and visiting supporters of both sides were snapping up merchandise, wining and dining, and attending festival-themed events, backing up forecasts that the city would enjoy up to HK$428 million... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3320262/arsenal-selfies-spurs-drones-hk200000-bus-football-fever-sweeps-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3320262/arsenal-selfies-spurs-drones-hk200000-bus-football-fever-sweeps-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 31 Jul 2025 08:00:18 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson China’s failure to impose itself on the football stage is an issue that continues to baffle many in the game. Despite its vast size and population, it has failed to qualify for a men’s World Cup since 2002 and will once again miss out on the 2026 edition after finishing behind Indonesia in qualifying. Andrea Galbiati is a coach at AC Milan’s academy in Hong Kong, having recently been transferred from his post in Beijing – and he highlighted some of the issues he felt have been holding the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3319806/why-chinese-football-developing-so-slowly-ac-milan-academy-coach-gives-1-reason?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3319806/why-chinese-football-developing-so-slowly-ac-milan-academy-coach-gives-1-reason?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 28 Jul 2025 05:07:28 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson Former AC Milan forward Alexandre Pato has hailed the time he spent in China and said he remains a fan of football in the country. The former Brazil international spent two seasons with Tianjin Quanjian from 2017 to 2019 during the Chinese Super League boom. Pato is known mostly for his time with Milan, but he also played for Premier League giants Chelsea and Spanish side Villarreal, as well as having spells in Brazil and the United States. Yet he remembers his time in China with fondness. “I... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3319710/ac-milan-idol-pato-says-time-china-one-most-important-experiences-my-life?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3319710/ac-milan-idol-pato-says-time-china-one-most-important-experiences-my-life?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 27 Jul 2025 00:00:26 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson AC Milan superfan Andy Yang travelled from Los Angeles to spend three days in Hong Kong just so he could watch his beloved Rossoneri in action. The Serie A giants face Liverpool at Kai Tak Stadium on Saturday in their first visit to the city in more than 20 years. And Yang has taken a 24,000km (15,000-mile) round trip to ensure he would be among the 50,000-strong crowd taking in the action. “I got here on Thursday and I’m leaving on Sunday,” he told the Post. “I came just for the game. “I’m... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3319647/ac-milan-superfan-makes-24000km-round-trip-hong-kong-liverpool-clash?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3319647/ac-milan-superfan-makes-24000km-round-trip-hong-kong-liverpool-clash?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 26 Jul 2025 05:00:08 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson Liverpool Football Club claim to have 1.2 million fans in Hong Kong. On Saturday, several thousand of them will watch their heroes play in the city not only for the first time in eight years, but also as Premier League champions. For members of the Official Liverpool Supporters Club Hong Kong, it is an experience they will truly never forget. The group’s chairman, Ian McAlan, said the club had been full of surprises to ensure a memorable visit. “On Tuesday, the club put on an event with Lucas... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3319650/liverpool-fc-claim-12-million-fans-hong-kong-heres-how-they-organise?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3319650/liverpool-fc-claim-12-million-fans-hong-kong-heres-how-they-organise?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 25 Jul 2025 22:30:08 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson When you picture the North Pole, you may think of Christmas or camping under the Northern Lights. Hong Kong resident David Dudek, however, imagines running 26 miles (42km) in sub-zero temperatures. The 57-year-old hopes to finally take on the North Pole Marathon on Monday after six previous attempts were thwarted. “In 2019, I went in a Ukrainian plane, which the Russian airspace would not allow to land on its runway,” Dudek said. “The next three years were cancelled because of Covid, the runway... https://www.scmp.com/sport/outdoor/trail-running/article/3317372/after-everest-and-great-wall-marathon-loving-hongkonger-tackles-north-pole?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/outdoor/trail-running/article/3317372/after-everest-and-great-wall-marathon-loving-hongkonger-tackles-north-pole?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 08 Jul 2025 23:00:08 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson,Lars Hamer Andrew Cesare Richardson,Lars Hamer The world of football reacted with shock and grief on Thursday, after Liverpool footballer Diogo Jota and his brother Andre Silva died in a car crash in northwest Spain. According to police, the 28-year-old and his brother, 26, were in a Lamborghini that left the road soon after midnight, crashed and burst into flames. Police said the incident happened “in the municipality of Cernadilla in the province of Zamora” at 12.30am local time. Jota, who won the Nations League with Portugal last month,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3316805/liverpool-forward-diogo-jota-dies-car-crash-aged-28-reports?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3316805/liverpool-forward-diogo-jota-dies-car-crash-aged-28-reports?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 03 Jul 2025 08:30:38 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson Al-Hilal finally got the manager they wanted … or did they? The Saudi Arabian giants announced Simone Inzaghi as their new manager on Thursday in what was considered quite a coup, after the Italian led Inter Milan to two Champions League finals in three years. However, eagle-eyed viewers spotted something a little off in the club’s announcement video, which left them wondering if he really had been their target all along. At around 25 seconds into the short clip, commentary of “Inzaghi” scoring... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3313293/al-hilals-presentation-gaffer-gaffe-did-they-hire-wrong-inzaghi?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3313293/al-hilals-presentation-gaffer-gaffe-did-they-hire-wrong-inzaghi?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Jun 2025 05:00:16 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson Hong Kong fans may get to see Real Madrid icon Luka Modric in action during July’s Football Festival, according to sources. The Post understands AC Milan, who face Liverpool at Kai Tak Stadium on July 26, are interested in signing the Croatia midfielder. Sky Italia, meanwhile, report a deal is close and that new Milan sporting director Igli Tare travelled to Croatia to speak to the player in a bid to reach a verbal agreement. Modric, 39, will end his trophy-laden, 13-year spell with Real Madrid... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3313048/real-madrid-icon-could-be-heading-hong-kong-football-festival-sources?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3313048/real-madrid-icon-could-be-heading-hong-kong-football-festival-sources?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:30:08 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson Supporters savoured Manchester United’s presence in Hong Kong as the English club contributed to a lively spectacle in Friday’s friendly match against the city’s representative team. Playing their second fixture of a two-match Asian tour, United won 3-1 and offered more bang for spectators’ buck than was the case in their midweek defeat by Asean All-Stars. On that previous outing in Kuala Lumpur, they were jeered at full-time and deemed by coach Ruben Amorim to have lacked hunger. Jason and Wing... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3312543/manchester-united-end-asia-tour-brighter-note-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3312543/manchester-united-end-asia-tour-brighter-note-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 30 May 2025 22:00:23 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim played down suggestions Bruno Fernandes could leave the club this summer. Reports on Friday suggested Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal could be set to launch a bid for the United captain, who was reported to be open to the move, with his agent even pictured in Riyadh. However, speaking after his side’s 3-1 win over Hong Kong, Amorim said he did not expect the 30-year-old to leave Old Trafford. “I don’t think so,” Amorim replied when asked if he thought this was... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3312539/manchester-united-boss-amorim-addresses-fernandes-exit-talk-i-dont-think-so?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3312539/manchester-united-boss-amorim-addresses-fernandes-exit-talk-i-dont-think-so?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 30 May 2025 15:12:30 +0000 Andrew Cesare Richardson Andrew Cesare Richardson Tickets placed on general sale for July’s Hong Kong Football Festival at Kai Tak Stadium have sold out within hours, tournament organisers announced on Monday. The event will see a rematch of the 2005 and 2007 Champions League finals when AC Milan take on Liverpool on July 25 before a first North London derby outside the UK when Arsenal and Tottenham meet six days later. With 48,000 fans in attendance for each of the matches at Hong Kong’s newly opened stadium at Kai Tak Sports Park, the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3309966/hong-kong-football-festival-sells-out-citys-biggest-ever-football-crowd?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3309966/hong-kong-football-festival-sells-out-citys-biggest-ever-football-crowd?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 12 May 2025 05:55:56 +0000 Reuters,Andrew Cesare Richardson Reuters,Andrew Cesare Richardson Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr were dumped out of the Asian Champions League Elite as Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale spectacularly ripped up the script with a 3-2 semi-final victory on Wednesday to reach the continental final for the first time. And just hours later, Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami were beaten in their Concacaf last-four clash with the Vancouver Whitecaps. Big-spending Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr succumbed in Jeddah when Yuto Ozeki and Akihiro Ienaga struck after Sadio Mane’s deflected... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3308614/cristiano-ronaldos-al-nassr-knocked-out-champions-league-semi-final?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3308614/cristiano-ronaldos-al-nassr-knocked-out-champions-league-semi-final?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 01 May 2025 01:20:49 +0000 This weekend could see matters both at the top and bottom of the Premier League resolved. As for Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers, the main issue to contend with in Gameweek 34 is the blanks for Manchester City, Arsenal, Aston Villa and Crystal Palace. This comes hot on the heels of a Double Gameweek, so changes will be necessary as we close in on the final stretch of the campaign. I’m filling in today for my esteemed colleague, Lars Hamer, who’s had quite the past few weeks in FPL. But... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3307875/fpl-gameweek-34-mohamed-salah-clinch-liverpools-title-give-cole-palmer-another-chance?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3307875/fpl-gameweek-34-mohamed-salah-clinch-liverpools-title-give-cole-palmer-another-chance?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 25 Apr 2025 10:30:08 +0000 In 2022, Hugo Calderano vowed he would be “better than the Chinese” table tennis players – and, on Sunday, he was true to his word. Victory over world No 1 Lin Shidong in the World Cup final in Macau may have sent Chinese fans into a period of reflection, but for 28-year-old Calderano it was just his latest achievement as he continued to break new ground for South American table tennis. Ranked at world No 5 going into the tournament, Calderano won it the hard way as he overcame third-ranked... https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/3307799/who-hugo-calderano-brazilian-table-tennis-star-who-finally-beat-chinese?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/3307799/who-hugo-calderano-brazilian-table-tennis-star-who-finally-beat-chinese?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 24 Apr 2025 12:00:09 +0000 The hosts suffered double final defeat at the Hong Kong Lacrosse Open on Sunday, with both the men’s and women’s sides beaten in their showpiece events. First, the women faced a repeat of last year’s final against Second Era Leaders of Lacrosse (SELL), but could not reverse their defeat of 12 months ago as they went down 16-5. Then the men were unable to retain their title as they lost 10-7 to Shenzhen Lacrosse Development Ltd (SLDL). Hong Kong players and coaches were able to find positives,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/3307238/hong-kong-teams-beaten-lacrosse-open-olympics-gives-youngsters-pathway?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/other-sport/article/3307238/hong-kong-teams-beaten-lacrosse-open-olympics-gives-youngsters-pathway?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 20 Apr 2025 14:22:28 +0000 BC Rangers reached a second FA Cup final in three seasons by beating Hong Kong Football Club 4-1 at Mong Kok Stadium on Saturday. They were in full control of their semi-final by half-time thanks to a trio of similarly worked goals as their game plan of playing through Football’s Club high line paid off, with Lau Chi-lok, Li Wing-ho and Maxwell Ansah the scorers. HKFC replied after the interval through Leo, but Guilherme Biteco completed their miserable afternoon with a sublime fourth. Rangers... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3307164/hong-kong-fa-cup-semi-finals-rampant-rangers-back-final-dominant-win?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3307164/hong-kong-fa-cup-semi-finals-rampant-rangers-back-final-dominant-win?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 19 Apr 2025 08:57:27 +0000 Hong Kong men’s boss Chan Hon-kei said rivals Fogo were “pretty much the best team in the tournament” after an opening day at the Lacrosse Open on Friday that saw both of the city’s sides earn maximum points. The hosts opened with a 23-2 victory over Chengdu University before overcoming Singapore 9-5 in a thrilling match, which they threatened to lose with the two sides level at 5-5 at point. Chan said he hoped the show of character to get the eventual win would help the team improve as the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3307084/lacrosse-open-hong-kong-mens-coach-hails-rivals-fogo-best-team-tournament?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3307084/lacrosse-open-hong-kong-mens-coach-hails-rivals-fogo-best-team-tournament?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 18 Apr 2025 09:47:04 +0000 Manchester United have vowed to “put on a show” when they visit Hong Kong next month, and reassured local supporters there would be no repeat of the Lionel Messi fiasco. In February last year the Argentina captain remained an unused substitute during Inter Miami’s pre-season match in the city – much to the anger of fans. However, ahead of United’s first fixture in Hong Kong in 12 years, the club on Thursday said their leading players would be available for the friendly clash with the city’s... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3306017/no-messi-repeat-manchester-united-vow-bring-their-stars-hong-kong-match?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3306017/no-messi-repeat-manchester-united-vow-bring-their-stars-hong-kong-match?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 10 Apr 2025 11:54:37 +0000 Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has described his club’s post-season trip to Hong Kong as a “small sacrifice” to reward fans in the region and bring in revenue. It was confirmed on Tuesday that the Old Trafford club’s match in Hong Kong – revealed by the Post last week – would take place on May 30, against the city’s representative side at Hong Kong Stadium. The match will take place just two days after United play a friendly fixture against Asean All Stars in Malaysia, and only five days... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3305785/manchester-uniteds-hong-kong-trip-small-sacrifice-boss-ruben-amorim-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3305785/manchester-uniteds-hong-kong-trip-small-sacrifice-boss-ruben-amorim-says?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 09 Apr 2025 04:03:40 +0000 Organisers of Manchester United’s match in Hong Kong next month have confirmed that the city’s representative team will provide the opposition during the English Premier League club’s first visit in 12 years. The date of the friendly fixture has also been confirmed as May 30, a Friday, with kick-off at 8pm. It follows the Post’s revelation earlier this month that United would be playing in the city, in a match staged at Hong Kong Stadium rather than in the new 50,000-seat venue at Kai Tak Sports... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3305654/manchester-uniteds-opponents-hong-kong-revealed-organisers-confirm-date?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3305654/manchester-uniteds-opponents-hong-kong-revealed-organisers-confirm-date?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 08 Apr 2025 08:17:06 +0000 Where now for Ange Postecoglou? It’s hard to defend the Tottenham boss after such a difficult season domestically which shows no signs of improving. A win at Stamford Bridge would have been a huge positive marker. Alas … Blues’ boost Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea received a huge boost to their ambitions of qualifying for the Uefa Champions League with a 1-0 victory over Tottenham. Enzo Fernandez scored the game’s only legitimate goal of the game on 50 minutes before both sides had strikes ruled out by... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3305163/chelsea-beat-tottenham-barcelona-receive-boost-tennis-elites-grand-slam-appeal?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3305163/chelsea-beat-tottenham-barcelona-receive-boost-tennis-elites-grand-slam-appeal?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 04 Apr 2025 00:30:26 +0000 With each passing match, it’s becoming more difficult to justify any type of interest in the English Premier League title “race”. At this point, Liverpool would need a total collapse – and even then for Arsenal to become relentless. Still, it’s at Anfield where we start our Wednesday night round up. Same old Moyes No matter the form, David Moyes plus Everton at Anfield can never equal victory. Once again it was Liverpool who prevailed as Diogo Jota’s second-half goal gave the hosts a 1-0 derby... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3304974/liverpool-win-derby-mourinho-nose-pincher-clasico-cup-final-raducanu-withdraws?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3304974/liverpool-win-derby-mourinho-nose-pincher-clasico-cup-final-raducanu-withdraws?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 03 Apr 2025 00:30:15 +0000 We’re well and truly in the business end of the football season with every match worth that little bit more. In the English Premier League, at least, there’s not too much still undecided but pressure does funny things to you. So let’s start our Tuesday night round-up with title challengers Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Fulham at the Emirates. Gunners still fighting Bukayo Saka scored just seven minutes into his return to put Mikel Arteta’s side 2-0 ahead after Mikel Merino’s first-half opener before... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3304820/arsenal-win-man-united-lose-while-real-madrid-keep-treble-hopes-alive-epic-thriller?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3304820/arsenal-win-man-united-lose-while-real-madrid-keep-treble-hopes-alive-epic-thriller?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 02 Apr 2025 00:30:12 +0000 AC Milan legend Franco Baresi said he was excited to see one of Europe’s most “historic rivalries” played out in Hong Kong when his old club visit the city this summer. Monday saw the announcement of the Hong Kong Football Festival 2025 at Kai Tak Stadium, in which Milan will take on Liverpool on July 26 before Arsenal face Tottenham five days later. The Rossoneri have been crowned European champions on seven occasions, while Liverpool have won the same trophy six times. The two sides met in the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3304687/ac-milan-legend-franco-baresi-excited-historic-liverpool-rivalry-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3304687/ac-milan-legend-franco-baresi-excited-historic-liverpool-rivalry-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 01 Apr 2025 04:56:06 +0000 Novak Djokovic missed the chance to win his 100th ATP title, suffering a shock straight-sets defeat by Jakub Mensik in the Miami Open final. Unseeded Mensik showed his mettle once again in tie-breaks as he took the final 7-6, 7-6 to win his maiden ATP title. The match started more than 5½ hours after its scheduled start time of 3pm on Sunday local time because of a rain delay, with the players finally arriving on court at 8.37pm. Djokovic was aiming to become only the third man to claim a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3304513/novak-djokovic-stuck-99-stunned-unseeded-jakub-mensik-miami-open-final?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3304513/novak-djokovic-stuck-99-stunned-unseeded-jakub-mensik-miami-open-final?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 31 Mar 2025 02:51:35 +0000 AC Milan’s new academy in Hong Kong was officially opened on Sunday, with a ceremony held at Kai Tak Mall. Franco Baresi, a former captain and a three-time European Cup winner, was among the representatives from the Rossoneri present in the city. “We are very proud to announce the launch of our new academy in Hong Kong and to share our values with the local community,” Baresi said. “We firmly believe in football’s power as a tool for education, growth, and inclusion. “Through this academy, we... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3304463/ac-milan-legend-franco-baresi-officially-opens-clubs-new-academy-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3304463/ac-milan-legend-franco-baresi-officially-opens-clubs-new-academy-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 30 Mar 2025 08:35:10 +0000 Novak Djokovic is used to being the star on the tennis court but having iconic footballer Lionel Messi in the stands to watch him reach the Miami Open final made him feel “a little pressure”. The former world No 1 beat 14th seed Grigor Dimitrov 6-2, 6-3 in Friday’s semi-final and will meet 19-year-old Jakub Mensik in Sunday’s showpiece after the unseeded Czech shocked No 3 seed Taylor Fritz 7-6, 4-6, 7-6. In his on-court interview, Djokovic said Messi, who plays for Major League Soccer’s local... https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3304399/lionel-messi-watching-novak-djokovic-reach-miami-open-final-made-serb-feel-pressure?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3304399/lionel-messi-watching-novak-djokovic-reach-miami-open-final-made-serb-feel-pressure?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 29 Mar 2025 04:46:02 +0000 Zheng Qinwen’s straight sets win over Ashlyn Krueger on Monday set up a Miami Open quarter-final match-up with the Olympic gold medallist’s bête noire: Aryna Sabalenka. The ninth seed powered past American Krueger 6-2, 7-6, but if her impressive run is to continue, she will need to overcome the world No 1 – something she has failed to do in all five previous meetings. Their next match is scheduled for Wednesday at 7am Hong Kong time, after Sabalenka earned her place in the last eight with a 6-4,... https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3303746/miami-open-chinas-zheng-qinwen-face-mountain-she-cannot-climb-quarter-finals?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3303746/miami-open-chinas-zheng-qinwen-face-mountain-she-cannot-climb-quarter-finals?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Mar 2025 05:08:49 +0000 The big sporting news for Hongkongers on Monday night was Coleman Wong’s historic third-round clash with Adam Walton at the Miami Open. But you can read all about what happened in that one here. We’re going to take a look at the rest of the sporting headlines, starting with Thomas Tuchel’s second match in charge of England. Book your flights England are unbeaten in World Cup qualification since they were beaten 1-0 by Ukraine in 2009 – having at that point already qualified for South... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303705/englands-routine-world-cup-qualifying-win-osaka-out-raducanu-through-miami?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303705/englands-routine-world-cup-qualifying-win-osaka-out-raducanu-through-miami?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:30:17 +0000 Coleman Wong Chak-lam made more history on Saturday, getting into the third round of an ATP Masters 1000 tournament for the first time. And the Hongkonger’s sensational three-set win over Australian Open semi-finalist Ben Shelton in the Miami Open has local fans dreaming of a long run in the tournament. Next up for the 20-year-old wild card is Australian Adam Walton. So, ahead of their highly anticipated clash, here is everything you need to know. Who is Adam Walton? The 25-year-old is ranked... https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3303581/miami-open-who-coleman-wongs-next-opponent-how-can-i-watch-when-does-it-start?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3303581/miami-open-who-coleman-wongs-next-opponent-how-can-i-watch-when-does-it-start?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 24 Mar 2025 05:30:10 +0000 The Uefa Nations League produced a night for the ages with the quarter-final second legs. Two of the four ties went to penalties, one to extra time and the other saw a side come from 3-0 down on the night to draw 3-3 yet still face elimination. So as we round up Sunday’s night’s sporting action, let’s start there. Pure entertainment Who had the Nations League quarter-finals as the exciting football event of 2025? Well, to that extremely small minority who did, I doff my cap off to you. What a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303557/uefa-nations-league-thrills-goals-galore-djokovic-through-keys-out-vonn-shines?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303557/uefa-nations-league-thrills-goals-galore-djokovic-through-keys-out-vonn-shines?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 24 Mar 2025 00:30:17 +0000 Australian Open champion Madison Keys suffered a sensational elimination from the Miami Open at the hands of Filipino wild card Alexandra Eala on Sunday. The 19-year-old upset the American with a 6-4, 6-2 victory as she became the first woman from the Philippines to beat a top-10 ranking opponent since 1975. Victory comes on the back of beating 2017 French Open winner Jelena Ostapenko in the second round. “I am just in disbelief,” Eala told Tennis Channel. “I knew I could win from the start but... https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3303558/australian-open-champion-madison-keys-stunned-filipino-wild-card-alexandra-eala-miami?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3303558/australian-open-champion-madison-keys-stunned-filipino-wild-card-alexandra-eala-miami?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 23 Mar 2025 23:38:55 +0000 China boss Branko Ivankovic praised his players following their 1-0 defeat to Saudi Arabia on Thursday, a loss that leaves their chances of reaching the 2026 Fifa World Cup finals in jeopardy. The visitors were level at half-time against one of the biggest sides in the Asian section but a red card for Lin Liangming – for a foul on Hassan Kadesh – changed the course of the match, with Salem Aldawsari scoring the only goal of the game in the 50th minute. Defeat left China bottom of Group C with... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303297/fought-bravely-china-boss-praises-players-despite-world-cup-defeat-saudi-arabia?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303297/fought-bravely-china-boss-praises-players-despite-world-cup-defeat-saudi-arabia?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Mar 2025 07:00:07 +0000 China were narrowly beaten 1-0 in their crucial Fifa World Cup qualifier in Saudi Arabia on Thursday to leave their qualification hopes hanging by a thread, after Japan became the first side to confirm their place at the 2026 finals. Branko Ivankovic’s side hung in there in the opening 45 minutes and went into the interval level at 0-0 but saw Lin Liangming sent off in first-half stoppage time for dangerous play. And it proved costly as Salem Aldawsari scored the game’s only goal five minutes... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303254/chinas-2026-world-cup-hopes-take-hit-saudi-arabia-japan-become-first-team-qualify?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303254/chinas-2026-world-cup-hopes-take-hit-saudi-arabia-japan-become-first-team-qualify?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Mar 2025 03:17:34 +0000 The big sporting news on Thursday was undoubtedly history being made as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) elected its first woman president. But you can read about that here. While you were sleeping, she discussed her plans after swooping. And that’s where we’ll start our overnight sporting round up. Trump card Fresh from her election to sport’s top job, Kirsty Coventry said she wants to sit down with United States President Donald Trump to make sure the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics are... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303237/ioc-chief-coventry-eyes-trump-talks-mbappe-and-co-stunned-germany-win-euro-clasico?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303237/ioc-chief-coventry-eyes-trump-talks-mbappe-and-co-stunned-germany-win-euro-clasico?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Mar 2025 00:30:10 +0000 As we await the start of the action during the break for international football, things can get a little quieter. It’s less about the live stuff and more about the general updates and previewing the coming action. So, with that in mind, let’s start our overnight round-up with the England men’s football boss’ thoughts on a high-profile recall. ‘He embodies everything’ Thomas Tuchel is convinced Jordan Henderson can be “the glue that makes things special” after surprisingly bringing the veteran... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303071/tuchel-hails-glue-henderson-kyrgios-wins-first-match-2022-nfl-meets-golf?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3303071/tuchel-hails-glue-henderson-kyrgios-wins-first-match-2022-nfl-meets-golf?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 20 Mar 2025 00:30:16 +0000 Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White told new England boss Thomas Tuchel he deserved to be included in the German’s first squad in charge after only being drafted in at late notice. The omission of the Forest captain from Tuchel’s squad on Friday was a surprise given his role in firing Nuno Espirito Santo’s men to third in the English Premier League. However, the 25-year-old was handed a reprieve on Sunday when an injury to Cole Palmer saw Gibbs-White called up. “Obviously I was upset. Yeah, a... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3302917/gibbs-white-scolds-tuchel-advantage-madrid-v-arsenal-osaka-reaches-miami-open-round-2?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3302917/gibbs-white-scolds-tuchel-advantage-madrid-v-arsenal-osaka-reaches-miami-open-round-2?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 19 Mar 2025 00:30:21 +0000 Hands up who genuinely believed this time Newcastle would do it. After several false dawns, the side from the North East of England have finally won a domestic trophy – 70 years on from the last. It was Sunday night, so there was plenty of sporting action to look back on, but we’ll start at Wembley. Up for the Cup Eddie Howe’s side stunned English Premier League champions-elect Liverpool with a 2-1 victory in the Carabao Cup final. It was their second appearance at this stage in the past three... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3302606/newcastle-end-70-years-hurt-stun-liverpool-arsenal-win-draper-indian-wells-champion?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3302606/newcastle-end-70-years-hurt-stun-liverpool-arsenal-win-draper-indian-wells-champion?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 17 Mar 2025 00:30:22 +0000 A weekend packed with live sport brings us major action in rugby, football and tennis. There’s so much going on across the world this weekend. But, here, we’re focusing on the biggest headlines from Saturday night. Battered and Bleus-d France claimed their seventh Six Nations trophy in a record-strewn 35-16 victory over Scotland, shaking off their beautiful runners-up tag on a crisp evening at the Stade de France. Les Bleus matched England’s number of titles since Italy joined the championship... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3302549/france-clinch-six-nations-man-city-held-alli-sent-return-medvedev-eliminated?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3302549/france-clinch-six-nations-man-city-held-alli-sent-return-medvedev-eliminated?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 16 Mar 2025 00:30:14 +0000 A rare Friday night with little in the way of major sporting action in Europe. The English Premier League weekend starts on Saturday with the showpiece Carabao Cup final on Sunday. All the talk was of the England squad selection but first, a look at a story involving a former Three Lions gaffer. If the Cap fits Pep Guardiola has hit back at Fabio Capello, who labelled the Manchester City boss “arrogant”. In a recent interview with Spanish publication El Mundo, the ex-Juventus and England boss... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3302494/guardiola-hits-back-ex-england-boss-tuchel-wants-earn-anthem-cheltenham-shock?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3302494/guardiola-hits-back-ex-england-boss-tuchel-wants-earn-anthem-cheltenham-shock?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 15 Mar 2025 00:30:14 +0000 The English Premier League title race may effectively be over but we’re entering crunch time in Fantasy Football. Coming up is Gameweek 28, which is immediately followed by a weekend when four teams will not be playing. We decided to be topical and ask DeepSeek for a little help – and we’re going to tell you why that is not a good idea. But first, let’s take a look back at Gameweek 27. Cold Palmer Could it finally be time to move on from the Chelsea man? If Southampton at home didn’t bring... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3301377/fantasy-premier-league-cole-palmers-last-chance-and-why-you-shouldnt-ask-deepseek?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3301377/fantasy-premier-league-cole-palmers-last-chance-and-why-you-shouldnt-ask-deepseek?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 07 Mar 2025 02:00:18 +0000 Denise Tsang,Andrew Cesare Richardson,Harvey Kong Denise Tsang,Andrew Cesare Richardson,Harvey Kong Hong Kong’s sports and tourism chief has apologised to snooker fans after the organiser of the World Grand Prix held at Kai Tak Arena ejected about 100 spectators midway through the tournament because transport services were ending at midnight. Rosanna Law Shuk-pui, secretary for culture, sports and tourism, expressed her sympathies on Wednesday to those affected the day before and ordered the event organiser, World Snooker Tour, and venue operator to let audiences stay until the end of matches... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3301111/hong-kong-minister-apologises-after-kai-tak-arena-kicks-out-snooker-fans-early?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3301111/hong-kong-minister-apologises-after-kai-tak-arena-kicks-out-snooker-fans-early?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Mar 2025 04:55:10 +0000 Hong Kong’s reputation was unlikely to suffer because fans were kicked out of Kai Tak Arena midway through a first-round World Grand Prix match on Tuesday, snooker’s top official has said. Spectators watching reigning world champion Kyren Wilson play Matthew Selt were ordered to leave ahead of a midnight curfew imposed by officials to coincide with public transport services stopping for the day. The move forced World Snooker Tour (WST) to issue a “sincere apology” in the early hours of... https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3301078/fans-kicked-out-kai-tak-arena-early-world-snooker-grand-prix-due-curfew?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/hong-kong/article/3301078/fans-kicked-out-kai-tak-arena-early-world-snooker-grand-prix-due-curfew?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Mar 2025 01:32:23 +0000 For a team that has no forwards, Arsenal weren’t too shabby in their sensational 7-1 victory away to PSV Eindhoven in the Uefa Champions League first leg. While, even without strikers, the Gunners would expect to be favourites for this one, they were up against a team who stormed to the title last season and knocked out Juventus in the previous round. But Arsenal were relentless and took a 3-0 lead inside 31 minutes thanks to goals from Jurrien Timber, Ethan Nwaneri and Mikel Merino. Noa Lang... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3301074/arsenal-hit-7-champions-league-judd-trump-wows-kai-tak-mavericks-major-ko?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3301074/arsenal-hit-7-champions-league-judd-trump-wows-kai-tak-mavericks-major-ko?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:30:16 +0000 The Uefa Champions League knockout stages are upon us, with matches on Tuesday and Wednesday, European time. On paper there aren’t too many differences with previous editions, despite the traditional group stage having been replaced by a new league phase. We’re down to 16 teams, with a home-and-away fixture and the winner qualifying for the quarter-finals. And while the format is roughly the same, there are some caveats, as well as plenty of interesting narrative points. One nation For the... https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3300961/5-things-know-uefa-champions-league-last-16-starts-psg-v-liverpool-madrid-derby?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/football/article/3300961/5-things-know-uefa-champions-league-last-16-starts-psg-v-liverpool-madrid-derby?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 04 Mar 2025 07:00:15 +0000 Tennis great Serena Williams is the newest member of the Toronto Tempo’s ownership group, the WNBA expansion franchise said on Monday. “New court, new game,” the team posted on X along with a 15-second video that features Williams dribbling with a tennis ball. Williams joins principal owner Larry Tanenbaum, chairman of Kilmer Sports Ventures, whose holdings include the NBA’s Toronto Raptors, NHL’s Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto FC of MLS. “Serena Williams is an icon, a role model and a force... https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3300913/serena-williams-joins-wnba-ownership-group-nottingham-forest-reach-fa-cup-quarter-finals?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/sport/tennis/article/3300913/serena-williams-joins-wnba-ownership-group-nottingham-forest-reach-fa-cup-quarter-finals?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 04 Mar 2025 00:30:19 +0000