Argentina’s Pitana to referee World Cup final
Experienced Argentine official Nestor Pitana will referee the World Cup final between France and Croatia at the Luzhniki Stadium on Sunday, an uncontroversial decision which rewards his authoritative performances in Russia.
How Deschamps’s pragmatic approach took France to final
Despite having the most talented squad at the World Cup, France have made it to Sunday’s final against Croatia by embracing pragmatism over adventure, subsuming their individual flair for the collective benefit.
Louisville might rename Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium after racial slur
The fallout from former Papa John’s chairman John Schnatter’s use of a racial slur continued Thursday, with University of Louisville president Neeli Bendapudi saying the school is considering its options regarding the naming rights to Papa John’s Cardi…
NHL notebook: Jets goalie Hellebuyck signs six-year deal
The Winnipeg Jets announced the signing of restricted free agent goalie Connor Hellebuyck to a six-year, $37 million deal Thursday.
NFL notebook: McCoy’s ex-girlfriend alleges possible setup
The ex-girlfriend of Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy told police McCoy possibly “set her up” in the Tuesday home invasion that resulted in her being the victim of an alleged assault.
Major League Baseball notebook: Angels’ Richards could be out until 2020
Los Angeles Angels right-hander Garrett Richards will have Tommy John surgery to repair damage to the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, he told reporters Thursday.
Kentucky’s Rhodes speeds to victory at home track
The Louisville Slugger knocked it out of the park on Thursday night at Kentucky Speedway.
Phil Mickelson opens up about recent on-course issues
One week before teeing off at the Open Championship, Phil Mickelson spoke with media in Scotland on Thursday about the headlines he’s made recently, most notably his intentional putt of a moving ball at the U.S. Open and the $10 million made-for-TV mat…
Former Giants coach McAdoo takes shots at ex-foes, players
Speaking publicly for the first time Thursday since he was fired last December, former New York Giants head coach Ben McAdoo still sounded very much like a fan of the club. However, between his criticisms of NFC East rivals and praise for the Giants’ n…
Major League Baseball roundup: Red Sox stretch win streak to 10
Mookie Betts capped a 13-pitch, fourth-inning at-bat against Toronto’s J.A. Happ with a go-ahead grand slam to power the host Boston Red Sox past the Blue Jays 6-4 on Thursday.
