The four Grand Slams get bigger and bigger every year, but it’s possible no single event changed the course of the tennis season more than the Paris Olympics.

It wasn’t just that 37-year-old Novak Djokovic finally won the gold medal that had long eluded him, or that women’s No. 1 Iga Swiatek cracked under the pressure of playing for Poland on the same red clay where she’s been untouchable for the past three years.

Any Olympic tournament throws a wrench into the normal rhythm of the tennis season. Already facing a packed 10-month schedule full of big tournaments that wears on the body and mind, those who chose to play the Olympics not only added another high-stress event to their workload but did so with the added hurdle of quickly switching from grass back to clay and then immediately to the North American hard court swing leading up to the US Open.

It’s a small sample size, but the results in Cincinnati and Canada over the last couple weeks suggest that those who played the Olympics came back physically and emotionally drained while those who skipped Paris enter the Open in better form. And then there’s Djokovic, seeking his 25th Grand Slam title, who hasn’t played since a monstrous effort to beat Carlos Alcaraz 7-6, 7-6 in the gold-medal match.

Those dynamics set up a fascinating tournament in New York where it seems like there could be some chaos and early-round upsets. Here are five things to know about the draw, which came out Thursday afternoon in advance of Monday’s opening-round matches.

Coco Gauff’s summer struggles

As hot as Coco Gauff was coming into the US Open a year ago – ultimately delivering her first Grand Slam title – her 2024 campaign has been confusing and underwhelming. Though she got to the semifinals at the Australian and French opens, cruising through against relatively soft draws perhaps masked some underlying issues in her game and her confidence. Ever since getting routed by Emma Navarro in the fourth round at Wimbledon, Gauff has taken early losses to Donna Vekic at the Olympics, Diana Schnaider in Canada and Yulia Putinseva in Cincinnati.

Now she has to find her form while facing the pressure as the defending champion in New York, and the draw didn’t do her a lot of favors. Vavara Gracheva is a tricky first-round match, Elena Svitolina is a tough customer potentially in the third round, and she could have to get through both Navarro and recent Wimbledon champ Barbora Krejcikova just to reach the semis. If Gauff doesn’t win a few rounds, she’s in danger of falling out of the top five. Will the New York vibes inspire her to find her best again or intimidate her?

Doping controversy looms over men’s draw

The news this week that world No. 1 Jannik Sinner twice tested positive for the banned substance clostebol in the spring and had been provisionally suspended for much of the year during the appeal process – only to be cleared of wrongdoing by the International Tennis Integrity Agency – was a shock to the sport.

Almost immediately, several players took to social media claiming that there were double standards and preferential treatment in the way this case was handled, while former Wimbledon finalist Nick Kyrgios said Sinner should be suspended for two years.

Sinner, who won the Australian Open for his first major at the beginning of this season, successfully argued that traces of the steroid entered his system via his personal physiotherapist, who had used a spray containing the drug – which is available over the counter in Italy – to treat a wound on his own hand. The ITIA essentially accepted the claim that Sinner, who had lesions on his body from a skin condition, acquired traces in his system while being treated by the physio without gloves. Still, Sinner was stripped of ranking points and $325,000 in prize money from his semifinal appearance at Indian Wells, where the positive test popped up.

How Sinner processes this news becoming public, and how fans react to him in New York, will be a big storyline to follow as he makes his way through a tough draw that includes potential matchups with American Tommy Paul in the fourth round, Daniil Medvedev in the quarters and Alcaraz in the semis.

Women’s draw could get crazy

The lack of consistency on the women’s side this summer suggests this could be a replay of 2021 when qualifier Emma Raducanu came out of nowhere to beat equally out-of-nowhere Leylah Fernandez in the final.

Gauff doesn’t have it right now. Swiatek, outside of the French Open, has been a bit of a disappointment in majors the last couple years. Elena Rybakina can’t stay healthy. Jessica Pegula, who is in good form right now, has never broken through past a Grand Slam quarterfinal. The only top player who comes in feeling really confident is last year’s finalist Aryna Sabalenka, who rolled to the title in Cincinnati last week but had struggled for a stretch before that.

There’s potential for some real bracket-busting upsets right away: Naomi Osaka against No. 10 seed Jelena Ostapenko, Wimbledon and French Open finalist Jasmine Paolini against 2019 US Open champion Bianca Andreescu, Raducanu against former Aussie Open champ Sofia Kenin and Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen against recent Canada finalist Amanda Anisimova. If you like upsets, the first couple rounds here could deliver in a big way and reshape the entire complexion of the tournament.

How will Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz bounce back emotionally?

Djokovic has been basking in Olympic glory for a few weeks, with multiple celebrations in Serbia. But how hard has he been working physically – and, frankly – how much does he really care about this US Open after fulfilling the last major goal of his incredible career?

He might need to be sharp early on, as big-serving Jan-Lennard Struff is no gimme in the second round and potential third-round opponent Alexei Popyrin has played Djokovic tough multiple times in the past and is full of confidence after winning a surprise title in Canada. A potential fourth-round matchup against an American – either No. 13 seed Ben Shelton or No. 20 seed Francis Tiafoe, who seems to have rediscovered some form lately – looms as a tantalizing test.

Alcaraz, meanwhile, returned in Cincinnati after his bitterly disappointing Olympic loss and played what he called the worst match of his career in losing to 37-year-old Gael Monfils right out of the chute.

Was that just a fluke? Was he rusty after a post-Olympic vacation? Or has the emotional toll of winning the French and Wimbledon, followed by the Olympics, taken too much out of him as the season winds down? Alcaraz could also be tested early in New York by Denis Shapovalov in the second round, rising Brit Jack Draper in the third and American Sebastian Korda in the fourth.

Are Djokovic and Alcaraz on another collision course for the final, or will they be victims of a long and grueling season, throwing the men’s draw into chaos?

Remember this name: Learner Tien

Though American men are likely going to complete a 21st consecutive year without winning a Grand Slam singles title, the top-50 rankings these days are loaded with good players representing the Stars and Stripes. And we could be introduced to another one next week: 18-year-old Learner Tien from Irvine, California.

The son of Vietnamese immigrants, Tien reached two junior Grand Slam finals and won the USTA Boys’ 18-year-old national championship when he was just 16. Since turning pro, he’s made progress up the rankings, winning some low-level ITF tournaments and a Challenger Tour title in July. At the ATP level, he’s currently in the quarters of the Winston-Salem Open, notching wins against No. 49 Fabian Marozsan and No. 69 Thiago Seyboth Wild.

Tien, playing the US Open as a wildcard, drew 24th-ranked Frenchman Arthur Fils, another rising youngster. That’s a first-round match to keep an eye on. And if Tien can advance, he might have a pathway to make a little bit of a run and become something of a household name in the tennis world.

Follow Dan Wolken on social media @DanWolken

PHOENIX − They are one of baseball’s most dangerous teams.

They can slug, run, walk, make contact, pitch, play lights-out defense and are brimming with confidence.

They very well could be the Arizona Diamondbacks of a year ago, who snuck into the postseason, and made that magical October run to the World Series.

That team this year?

Well … the 2024 Arizona Diamondbacks.

Follow every MLB game: Latest MLB scores, stats, schedules and standings.

Don’t look now, but the way the D-backs are playing, the way they are built, the way they’ve shown surreal resiliency, they may be back in the World Series.

Yes, the Diamondbacks are that good.

“I know we went to the World Series last year, but I think this team is better this year,’’ Diamondbacks veteran starter Merrill Kelly told USA TODAY Sports. “Really, we’re a lot better, especially with our bullpen. It’s the best since I’ve been here.

“We’ve gone through our struggles. We’ve gone through our injuries. But the fact where we are now only confirms that we are a better team. There’s no reason we can’t take it a step further this year.

“We all believe that.’’

In the words of Philadelphia Phillies All-Star first baseman Bryce Harper: “They ain’t scared. They go about it the right way. They play the game hard. They’ve got guys that walk, guys that hit, good pitching, good bullpen. They’re a good team.’’

Perhaps even a great team, one that could be playing deep into the month of October once again, only this time being the last team to spray champagne.

“They’re as good as anybody,’’ Colorado Rockies manager Bud Black said. “They can beat you in a lot of ways. They have some guys with power. They can beat you with their legs. They have five guys who are legit base stealers. Defense, maybe the best in baseball. The outfield coverage is exceptional. And they got good arms throughout the bullpen and the rotation.

“You can make the case they’re better than last year, and that’s pretty scary.’’

The postseason starts in five weeks. There is no clear-cut favorite. No team is on pace to win 100 games. For the first time since 1959, there may not even be a team that wins 95 games.

This is why the D-backs, who lulled everyone to sleep the first three months of the season and had a loud wake-up call just one month into the year with an emotional team meeting, are making their presence known, loud and clear.

For the past two months, no team in baseball is playing better than the Diamondbacks (72-56). Since July 3, the D-backs are 31-12, leading the major leagues in victories, OPS (.844), on-base percentage (.351), slugging percentage (.492), runs per game (6.49) and total bases (759). They have hit a major-league leading 36 homers in the month of August.

The scary part?

They’re showing no signs of letting down, sitting firmly in a wild-card position while threatening to end the Los Angeles Dodgers’ NL West dynasty. They just swept the Miami Marlins and are now tied with the San Diego Padres for second place in the NL West, heading into Fenway Park for the first time in eight years this weekend to play a three-game series against the Boston Red Sox.

The D-backs’ offense is absolutely lethal, even with stars Ketel Marte and Christian Walker on the injured list. Center fielder Jake McCarthy is hitting .388 with five homers and 24 RBI in his last 24 games, while right fielder Corbin Carroll has 12 homers since July 7, a .964 OPS in August, and a career-high 31 consecutive starts reaching base. Third baseman Eugenio Suarez has a league-leading 35 RBI since July 7.

Kelly and Eduardo Rodriguez returned to the rotation in August for the first time since April. Their bullpen is among the deepest in the game with the acquisition of A.J. Puk and Dylan Floro at the trade deadline. And even with Walker injuring his oblique July 29, catcher Gabriel Moreno going on the IL on Aug. 8 with a strained groin, and MVP candidate Marte playing just one full game since Aug. 8 with a sprained ankle, the D-backs haven’t blinked. They’ve gone a major-league leading 17-5 since July 29.

Whether it’s first baseman Josh Bell hitting four home runs in his first six games after his Aug. 2 arrival, or rookie catcher Adrian Del Castillo being called up on Aug. 6 and driving in 14 RBI in his first nine games (one shy of the major-league record), or utility infielder Kevin Newman hitting .346 during Marte’s absence, there’s a new hero every night.

“I think that’s just kind of the culture that we cultivated here,’’ D-backs ace Zac Gallen said. “Outside of Ketel, being on an MVP pace this year, there’s been a different guy step up every night and get a big hit or whatever it is. It’s not the same guy every night. And I think that’s what you see from a really good team.’’

This mindset, this resiliency, winning 15 games when trailing in the seventh inning or later, can be traced back to May 4, when D-backs manager Torey Lovullo called a team meeting.

The D-backs had just been clobbered by the Padres, 13-1, in Phoenix, dropping them to 14-20. Lovullo had seen enough.

“It really wasn’t about the play that was going on,’’ Gallen said, “but it was more about the vibe that was going on. It was like, ‘even though we’re missing these guys, this is still a good ballclub. There’s still good talent in here.’

“Since then, it was like, ‘Hey, we’re not feeling sorry for ourselves because we lost these guys, there’s a lot of good talent in this room so let’s just do what we got to do. Let’s not give games away.’

“Things started to click.’’

Said Lovullo: “I was upset. I just told them, they’re a good team and there’s no excuses. Don’t use the absence of other players as an excuse for our failures. The lack of focus was unacceptable. The group in here is good enough to hold serve. Let’s just be within striking distance at the All-Star break and we’ll be fine because I knew good players were coming back.

“They responded to that.’’

And they haven’t looked back.

The D-backs had climbed to one game over .500 (49-48) by the All-Star break, seven games behind the Dodgers.

“We turned the page quick,’’ Suarez said. “That was the point of the meeting that day. We changed our energy right after that meeting. We all knew we had big talent, but we talked about trust. We were dealing with so many injuries. We knew at some point things were going to change, and it did.

“Look at us now.’’

This was a team that went 5-20 after the All-Star break a year ago, nearly costing themselves a playoff berth, but this time around, they’ve gone 23-8, with World Series dreams dancing in their heads.

And, as they proved to the baseball world a year ago, don’t let them get hot.

“I think this team is better than a year ago,’’ said Carroll, invaluable in the D-backs’ turnaround, hitting nine homers with a .612 slugging percentage and .951 OPS in the second half after having just two homers with a .310 slugging percentage on July 6. “Our rotation is better. Our bullpen. Our offense with the new guys. When we go out, we’ve got a chance to play with anyone.’’

A year ago the D-backs were the last team to get into the postseason, and stunned the baseball world. They swept the Milwaukee Brewers in the first round, swept the Dodgers in the NL Division Series, beat the Phillies in seven games in the NLCS, before finally faltering to the Texas Rangers in the World Series.

The D-backs’ front office and ownership vowed they would use that postseason revenue bonanza on the team, and delivered. They signed Rodriguez to a four-year, $80 million contract, outfielder/DH Joc Pederson to a one-year, $12.5 million deal, and traded for Suarez and the $13 million left on his contract. When Rodriguez went on the IL in spring training with a strained shoulder, they hit the free agent market again, signing Jordan Montgomery to a one-year, $25 million contract with a player option that will vest for at least $22.5 million in 2025. When Walker went down on the eve of the trade deadline, they didn’t blink, acquiring first baseman Bell from the Marlins and paying $2.5 million of his salary.

The D-backs, with a franchise-record $175 million payroll, are gambling that another deep run will not only give them another bump in attendance, but that a World Series trophy could help their cause for a new ballpark.

“The World Series and postseason run played a huge role in our decision to increase player payroll as much as we could,’’ Diamondbacks president Derrick Hall said. “All the unexpected revenues were recommitted to our 2024 product.’’

The D-backs’ success, after losing 110 games just three years ago, has awoken their fanbase. They’ve had baseball’s second-largest increase in attendance, 16.4%, behind only the Baltimore Orioles. The Diamondbacks are drawing 27,569 fans a game. They’re projected to draw their most fans since 2008.

If you win, particularly in this desert town, they will come.

And, if they happen to win the NL West, ending the powerful Dodgers’ supremacy (10 division titles in the last 11 years), well, this town knows how to party, too.

“It might not matter as much as it used to, but our goal is to win the division,’’ Kelly said. “Obviously, the Dodgers have had a monopoly on winning the division for the last decade. So, it would be cool. It would really be awesome for the fans to see.’’

It would be quite the pool party at Chase Field if they can win the division for the first time since 2011, finally knocking off the powerful Dodgers, who will be coming to town for a four-game series on Labor Day weekend.

“As you saw last year, and in years past,’’ Gallen said, “it doesn’t matter if you win the division or you’re the last wild-card team. You just want to get in, and then do some damage when we get to October.

“We’ll be ready.’’

Follow Nightengale on X: @Bnightengale

A 9-year-old football fan had a dream encounter while traveling through an airport.

Nasir was strolling along the airport concourse in Detroit heading for his flight with his dad, Sulaiman Mausi. As a huge Detroit Lions fan, Nasir was wearing his colors proudly, with a Lions jersey bearing the number of his favorite player, Aidan Hutchinson.

Hutchinson, who plays defensive end, is a fan favorite and one of the league’s rising stars tipped by football experts at si.com as a future MVP.

However, as he made his way through the hustle and bustle of the airport with his mom Melissa, and sister Mia, Hutchinson was happy to go unnoticed in the crowd as just another anonymous traveler. Until that is, Nasir walked past wearing Aidan’s jersey.

Though the young boy didn’t realize he’d just passed his idol, Aidan and his family recognized a die-hard young Lion, and the NFL star went into fan-friendly mode, deciding to make Nasir’s day.

Watch the video above to see a young Lions fan stunned by a surprise encounter with his favorite football player

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The Little League World Series continued on Thursday with a couple of fantastic games.

The first game featured Japan, who was looking to bounce back from a loss to Chinese Taipei, but fell to Venezuela 3-2. Venezuela will face Chinese Taipei in the international championship game on Saturday.

The T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby took place between Thursday’s games. It allowed the top players to step onto the field and swing like the professional players they admire. This special opportunity allows kids from all over the country to represent their community on the biggest stage in Little League.

According to Little League, the home run derby ‘is set to take place at Volunteer Stadium on Thursday, August 22, at 5 p.m. ET and will then be aired on ESPN2 on Friday, August 23, at 7 p.m. ET.’

Follow live for all the Little League World Series action on Thursday, Aug. 23.

Follow every MLB game: Latest MLB scores, stats, schedules and standings.

Florida 6, Nevada 3

Florida is set for a rematch with Texas following their win over Nevada in the U.S. semifinals. Teraj Alexander was excellent on the mound for Florida, not allowing a single run through 3.2 innings of work. He was removed with two outs left in the bottom of the sixth after surrendering a base hit to Caleb Gomez.

JJ Feliciano came in to finish Nevada off. With the tying run at the plate, Feliciano got Russell McGee to fly out to Liam Morrissey in center.

The U.S. championship game is set for Saturday, August 24.

Garrett Rohozen matches Feliciano

Feliciano hit his second home run of the LLWS earlier in this game, but his teammate Rohozen was not to be outdone. With one out in the top of the sixth, Rohozen drilled the first pitch he saw beyond the left field wall. Florida now leads 6-3.

Nevada goes down in order

Teraj Alexander has been untouchable since coming into the game. The bottom of the fifth inning was no different. Alexander, who has been one of the most likable players in the tournament, dominated Nevada in a three-up, three-down inning. Heading into the sixth, Florida leads 5-3.

Russell McGee with solid fifth

There isn’t much time for Nevada to comeback against Florida. With only six outs to work with, Nevada pitcher Russell McGee has had to be lights out. In the fifth, he was, surrendering just one baserunner and striking out two hitters. Heading into the bottom of the fifth, it’s 5-3 Florida.

Teraj Alexander with great fourth after taking comebacker

The fourth inning got off to a less-than-optimal start for Florida pitcher Teraj Alexander, after he took a comebacker off the leg and made an errant throw to first, allowing the Nevada runner to reach second. Alexander was noticeably shaken up after that hit, but that didn’t stop him from going three-up, three-down afterwards. Florida maintains their 5-3 lead heading into the fifth.

Dominic Laino robs Florida of another home run

Florida nearly tacked on another run after Landon Bono launched a deep fly ball to right field. Fortunately for Nevada, right fielder Dominic Laino was there to snag the ball just before it got over the wall. Florida’s lead remains 5-3 heading into the bottom of the third.

JJ Feliciano with a shot to left

JJ Feliciano has been one of Florida’s best players throughout the LLWS, and he delivered in a big way for his team in the top of the third. Feliciano drilled his second home run of the tournament to give Florida a 5-3 lead with only one out in the top of the third.

McGee and Norton trade stellar second innings

After rocky first innings for both starting pitchers, each of them calmed down and delivered tremendous second innings for their teams. It remains 4-3 Florida heading into the top of the third.

Error gives Nevada second run

An uncommon error from Florida third baseman Garrett Rohozen gave Nevada their second run. Rohozen was gifted a textbook double play ball, but it skipped under his glove and into the outfield.

Nevada’s Parker Soronaka would deliver a sac fly one pitch later. It’s 4-3 Florida with one out in the bottom of the first.

Check swing delivers Nevada’s first run

After loading the bases with no outs, mirroring what Florida was able to accomplish in the top of the first, Oliver Johnson drove in Nevada’s first runs on a check swing.

The ball blooped over the shortstop’s head into shallow left field. The runner on second rounded third, but ultimately went back to the base.

Nevada looking strong as well

After a rocky top of the first, Nevada has answered back quickly. With Russell McGee delivering a double down the left field line. Two batters in and Nevada has runners on second and third with no outs with Wyatt Erickson up at the plate.

Florida gets on the board early

The change to Russell McGee did not help ease Nevada’s woes. McGee surrendered two consecutive singles to right field. DJ Mieses and Landon Bono drove in everyone that was on base when McGee came in, making it 3-0, but Florida wasn’t done.

Jacob Bibaub would drive Bono home with a single to left. We haven’t seen a single out in this game and already Florida leads 4-0.

Nevada with a pitching change already

Nevada’s starting pitcher could not find his stuff today and allowed each of Florida’s first three baserunners to reach base via walk. In fact, not a single Florida batter even swung the bat and all three reached base.

Nevada has opted to go with Russell McGee to hold down the fort and limit Florida’s damage.

What happened in the LLWS Home Run Derby?

The LLWS Home Run Derby started at 5 p.m. ET with eight contestants from this year’s tournament competing for the crown. The full list of contestants can be found here.

Unfortunately, although the event took place today, the event will not be aired until tomorrow, August 23 at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2. The reason for the delay is that there will be no LLWS games played tomorrow. Fans looking to get more LLWS action can watch the Home Run Derby when no other games are being played.

Florida’s path to this point

Nevada has played just three games to reach this point. Florida, meanwhile, has had a much harder path. After winning their first two games by a combined score of 8-2, Florida would run in to powerhouse Texas who defeated Florida 4-1. That put Florida in the loser’s bracket, where they’d have to take down New York and Hawaii to stay alive in the tournament. All that has put them in position to get a rematch against Texas should they win tonight.

Nevada’s path to this point

Nevada has been one of the biggest surprises in this year’s tournament, and they’ve reached this point with remarkable pitching. This team has scored more than three runs only once this whole tournament, but they’ve yet to surrender more than five.

This team started the tournament with their biggest win, defeating the New York team 9-1. Game 2 was much tougher as Hawaii gave Nevada everything they could handle as Nevada barely won 3-2. In their most recent game though, Texas was able to get to Nevada’s pitching winning 5-2.

When is next LLWS game?

With the LLWS winding down, there are fewer games for us to enjoy each day. The only other game on tap for today is the U.S. semifinals between Nevada and Florida. Florida has won two straight games in the loser’s bracket and looks to advance to the U.S. finals against Texas. Meanwhile, Nevada just suffered their first loss of the tournament to none other than Texas and hopes to face them in a rematch scheduled for Saturday.

The game between Nevada and Florida is set for 7 p.m. ET tonight.

Venezuela defeats Japan 3-2

Venezuela holds off Japan just enough to defeat them 3-2 and advance to the International Championship where they will face Chinese Taipei on Saturday.

Japan continues strong on the field

Japan’s strong defense has been the theme every time they take the field. They did it once again by holding off Venezuela scoreless in the top of the sixth. Japan needs one run to tie and two runs to win.

Venezuela returns the strong defense

Venezuela follows Japan’s lead and swiftly dismisses Japan’s batters in the bottom of the fifth without tying the score. Venezuela is ahead 3-2 going into the sixth.

Japan holds Venezuela in the fifth

Japan maintains defensive momentum and prevents Venezuela from scoring in the top of the fifth inning.

Japan responds and scores in the 4th

After being hit by a pitch, a Japanese player reaches first base. The next batter hits a ball to the outfield, landing between the center and right fielders, and records a double. Japan scored after a bases-loaded walk, which helped them get back into the game.

An infield single gets Japan a second run to make it 3-2, heading to the top of the fifth.

Venezuela gets on the board first

Venezuela gained momentum with back-to-back triples and scored three runs to take the lead. They almost scored a fourth run, but Japan’s right outfielder made a timely catch at the wall for the third out. Venezuela leads 3-0 heading into the bottom of the fourth inning.

Defense a theme for both teams

Defense remains the highlight of the game as Japan holds Venezuela scoreless at the top of the third.

Venezuela saves a run in the 2nd

With two outs and two Japanese runners on base, Venezuela’s second baseman quickly gets an infield hit and throws it to the first baseman to get the runner out, saving a run in a game where every run counts.

Japan’s quick top of the 2nd action

Japan dismisses three Venezuelan batters quickly to end the top of the second inning. Japan is up to bat in the bottom of the second inning.

Venezuela holds Japan scoreless

Japan was able to get some players on base, but a mistake by the final batter, who mistook a strike for a ball, led to the players on base attempting to advance. A throw to third base resulted in Venezuela getting their third out.

Japan dismisses three batters in the 1st inning

Japan enters the game with determination after losing to Chinese Taipei the day before. They quickly dismiss three consecutive Venezuela batters in the top of the first inning.

2024 Little League World Series: Time, TV, streaming and how to watch

All 39 games of the Little League World Series will be broadcast on one of ESPN, ESPN2 or ABC, with streaming options including ESPN+, the ESPN app and Fubo, which offers a free trial. Coverage begins at 3 p.m. ET.

When is the LLWS Home Run Derby?

The sixth annual Little League World Series Home Run Derby will be held on August 22 at 5 p.m. ET. Tune in to ESPN2 to watch the action on Friday, August 23.

What is the LLWS Home Run Derby format?

The Little League World Series Home Run Derby format is straightforward: each participant will receive 1 minute and 30 seconds to hit as many home runs as possible. Any fair balls that land over the fence in fair territory will be considered a home run. However, any balls that land on the chalk or cone line will not be counted as a home run.

All home runs must land before the next pitch is thrown. Any pitch that is thrown before the prior ball lands will not be counted as a home run. After the first round, the top 10 participants will advance to the second round.

In the second round, the 10 participants will have 1 minute and 30 seconds to hit as many home runs as possible. The batting order will be determined by the number of home runs that were hit in the first round, with the participant who hit the lowest total number of home runs batting first. The top five participants with the most total home runs will advance to the final round.

In the final round, the top five participants will each receive 1 minute and 30 seconds to hit as many home runs as possible. The batting order will be determined by the second round, with the participant having the lowest total number of home runs hitting first. At the end of the final round, the participant with the most total home runs will be crowned the T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby Champion.

What teams remain at the LLWS?

Chinese Taipei
Japan
Venezuela
Texas
Florida
Nevada

Little League World Series schedule and bracket:

(All times in ET)

Wednesday, Aug. 14:

Game 1: Mexico 2, Caribbean 0
Game 2: West 3, New England 1
Game 3: Asia-Pacific 8, Canada 0
Game 4: Southeast 2, Midwest 1

Thursday, Aug. 15:

Game 5: Japan 11, Puerto Rico 0
Game 6: Mountain 9, Metro 1
Game 7: Cuba 4, Europe-Africa 1
Game 8: Southwest 9, Mid-Atlantic 0

Friday, Aug. 16:

Game 9: Latin America 10, Mexico 0
Game 10: West 5, Great Lakes 0
Game 11: Asia-Pacific 11, Australia 0
Game 12: southeast 6, Northwest 1

Saturday, Aug. 17:

Game 13: Canada 12, Puerto 5
Game 14: Metro 6, Midwest 3
Game 15: Caribbean 8, Europe-Africa 3
Game 16: Mid-Atlantic 5, New England 0

Sunday, Aug. 18:

Game 17: Metro 4, Great Lakes 0
Game 18: Mexico 8, Canada 0
Game 19: Mid-Atlantic 12, Northwest 2

Monday, Aug. 19:

Game 20: Caribbean 11, Australia 0
Game 21: Japan 2, Latin America 1
Game 22: Mountain 3, West 2
Game 23: Asia-Pacific 10, Cuba 2
Game 24: Southwest 4, Southeast 1

Tuesday, Aug. 20:

Game 25: Latin America 2, Caribbean 1
Game 26: West 3, Mid-Atlantic 1
Game 27: Mexico 6, Cuba 4
Game 28: Southeast 6, Metro 1

Wednesday, Aug. 21:

Game 29: Chinese Taipei 3, Japan 1
Game 30: Texas 5, Nevada 2
 Game 31: Mexico vs. Venezuela on ESPN
Game 32: Florida vs. Hawai’i on ESPN

Thursday, Aug. 22:

Game 33 on ESPN
T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby
Game 34 on ESPN

Friday, Aug. 23:

7 p.m. T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby airing on ESPN

Saturday, Aug. 24:

International Championship: Chinese Taipei vs TBD on ABC at 12:30 p.m.
U.S. Championship on ABC at 3:30 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 25:

Consolation Game on ESPN2 at 10 a.m.
World Series Championship on ABC at 3 p.m.

When is the LLWS championship game?

The Little League World Series (LLWS) championship game is scheduled for Sunday, August 25th at 3 p.m. ET. The third-place consolation game is set to take place the same day at 10 a.m. ET.

The international and U.S. championship games, serving as the semifinals to Sunday’s championship game, will take place on Saturday, August 24 at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. ET.

How does the Little League World Series work?

The Little League World Series is divided into two brackets: the United States bracket and the international bracket. Each bracket will conduct its own individual tournament, and the winner from each bracket will face off in the championship.

The U.S. and international brackets are double-elimination brackets. This means that a team can still advance in a separate elimination bracket even after losing its first game. The winner of the elimination bracket then plays against the winner of the winners’ bracket in the U.S. or international final for the opportunity to compete in the LLWS championship.

In other words, a team must be defeated twice to be eliminated from the tournament.

Little League World Series: Aug. 22 schedule

Thursday’s action begins at 3 p.m., here’s a rundown of the games including the T-Mobile Home Run Derby:

All times Eastern.

Chinese Taipei vs. Venezuela, 3 p.m. | Lamade Stadium | ESPN
The T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby, 5 p.m. | Volunteer Stadium | ESPN
Florida vs. Nevada, 7 p.m. | Lamade Stadium | ESPN

The 2024 U.S. Regional Champions

Great Lakes – Hinsdale Little League – Hinsdale, Illinois
Metro – South Shore Little League – Staten Island, New York
Mid-Atlantic – Council Rock Newtown Little League – Newtown, Pennsylvania
Midwest – Sioux Falls Little League – Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Mountain – Paseo Verde Little League – Henderson, Nevada
New England – Salem Little League – Salem, New Hampshire
Northwest – South Hill Little League – Puyallup, Washington
Southeast – Lake Mary Little League – Lake Mary, Florida
Southwest – Boerne Little League – Boerne, Texas
West – Central East Maui Little League – Wailuku, Hawaii

The 2024 International Regional Champions

Asia-Pacific – Kuei-Shan Little League – Taoyuan City, Chinese Taipei
Australia – Hills Little League – Sydney, New South Wales
Canada – Whalley Little League – Surrey, British Columbia
Caribbean – Aruba Center Little League – Santa Cruz, Aruba
Cuba – Santa Clara Little League – Villa Clara, Cuba
Europe-Africa – South Czech Republic Little League – Brno, Czech Republic
Japan – Johoku Little League – Tokyo, Japan
Latin America – Cardenales Little League – Barquisimeto, Venezuela
Mexico – Matamoros Little League – Tamaulipas, Mexico
Puerto Rico – Radames Lopez Little League – Guayama, Puerto Rico

Past Little League World Series results

In recent years, teams from the United States have been very successful in the Little League World Series, winning the last five championships since 2017. The most recent international team to win the tournament was Japan, who defeated Lufkin, Texas 12-2 in the 2017 final, which lasted just five innings.

List of past winners:

Results date back to 2010 LLWS.

2023: El Segundo, Calif.
2022: Honolulu
2021: Taylor, Mich.
2020: Canceled due to COVID
2019: River Ridge, La.
2018: Honolulu
2017: Tokyo
2016: Maine-Endwell, N.Y.
2015: Tokyo
2014: Seoul, South Korea
2013: Tokyo
2012: Tokyo
2011: Huntington Beach, Calif.
2010: Tokyo

LLWS bracket and schedule

Here is the full 2024 LLWS bracket, courtesy of the Little League World Series:

We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.

The Seattle Mariners have made the second managerial change of the 2024 MLB season. And it comes with the team still fighting for a playoff spot.

Manager Scott Servais was relieved of his duties Thursday, the team announced.

Under Servais, 57, the Mariners once led the AL West division by as many as 10 games earlier this season, but are now five games behind the division-leading Houston Astros.

Dan Wilson, a former Mariners catcher from 1994 to 2005, was named the 21st manager in team history.

“We believe that we need a new voice in the clubhouse,” Mariners GM Jerry Dipoto said in a statement. “Dan knows our team and has been a key member of our organization working with players at every level over the past 11 years. He is well respected within and outside of our clubhouse and we are confident he will do a great job in leading our group over the final six weeks of the season and moving forward.’

All things Mariners: Latest Seattle Mariners news, schedule, roster, stats, injury updates and more.

Servais, also a former catcher who played 11 seasons in the majors, has managed the Mariners the past nine years, but has only one postseason berth in 2022 to his credit.

This season looked like it could be his best Mariners team. And after a win in Cleveland on June 18, Seattle led the division by 10 games with a 44-31 record. But the M’s have taken a severe downturn since, losing 33 of their last 53 games to fall to the .500 mark.

Servais has a career managerial record in Seattle of 680-642, a .514 winning percentage.

“I do want to thank Scott for all his efforts here in Seattle over the past nine seasons,’ Dipoto said. ‘He has poured his passion into the team and our community and I know I speak for the entire Mariners organization in thanking him for his hard work.”

Servais’ firing comes just over two weeks after Pedro Grifol was relieved of his duties as manager of the Chicago White Sox on Aug. 8.

Wilson’s first game as manager will be on Friday, when the Mariners open a three-game series in San Francisco.

The Los Angeles Dodgers designated 15-year veteran outfielder Jason Heyward for assignment on Thursday.

The former All-Star, who turned 35 this month, is batting .208 with six homers and 28 RBI in 63 games in 2024.

Heyward is a career .257 hitter with 180 homers and 709 RBI in 1,766 games with the Atlanta Braves (2010-14), St. Louis Cardinals (2015), Chicago Cubs (2017-22) and Dodgers.

Atlanta drafted Heyward in the first round (14th overall) in 2007 and he made the National League All-Star team as a rookie in 2010. He won five Gold Gloves in right field (2012, 2014-17).

Heyward is playing this season on a one-year contract for $9 million. He has earned more than $210 million during his career.

All things Dodgers: Latest Los Angeles Dodgers news, schedule, roster, stats, injury updates and more.

The Dodgers filled the roster slot by activating infielder/outfielder Chris Taylor from the 10-day injured list. He has been out of the lineup since July 24 with a right groin strain.

Taylor, 33, is batting .167 with three homers and 15 RBI in 64 games with the Dodgers this season.

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The Little League World Series continues on Thursday and with the T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby, which will air on Friday.

The first game featured Japan, who was looking to bounce back from a loss to Chinese Taipei, but fell to Venezuela 3-2. Venezuela will face Chinese Taipei in the international championship game on Saturday.

The T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby will take place between Thursday’s games. It will allow the top players to step onto the field and swing like the professional players they admire. This special opportunity allows kids from all over the country to represent their community on the biggest stage in Little League.

According to Little League, the home run derby ‘is set to take place at Volunteer Stadium on Thursday, August 22, at 5 p.m. ET and will then be aired on ESPN2 on Friday, August 23, at 7 p.m. ET.’

Follow live for all the Little League World Series action on Thursday, Aug. 23.

Follow every MLB game: Latest MLB scores, stats, schedules and standings.

What happened in the LLWS Home Run Derby?

The LLWS Home Run Derby started at 5 p.m. ET with eight contestants from this year’s tournament competing for the crown. The full list of contestants can be found here.

Unfortunately, although the event took place today, the event will not be aired until tomorrow, August 23 at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2. The reason for the delay is that there will be no LLWS games played tomorrow. Fans looking to get more LLWS action can watch the Home Run Derby when no other games are being played.

Florida’s path to this point

Nevada has played just three games to reach this point. Florida, meanwhile, has had a much harder path. After winning their first two games by a combined score of 8-2, Florida would run in to powerhouse Texas who defeated Florida 4-1. That put Florida in the loser’s bracket, where they’d have to take down New York and Hawaii to stay alive in the tournament. All that has put them in position to get a rematch against Texas should they win tonight.

Nevada’s path to this point

Nevada has been one of the biggest surprises in this year’s tournament, and they’ve reached this point with remarkable pitching. This team has scored more than three runs only once this whole tournament, but they’ve yet to surrender more than five.

This team started the tournament with their biggest win, defeating the New York team 9-1. Game 2 was much tougher as Hawaii gave Nevada everything they could handle as Nevada barely won 3-2. In their most recent game though, Texas was able to get to Nevada’s pitching winning 5-2.

When is next LLWS game?

With the LLWS winding down, there are fewer games for us to enjoy each day. The only other game on tap for today is the U.S. semifinals between Nevada and Florida. Florida has won two straight games in the loser’s bracket and looks to advance to the U.S. finals against Texas. Meanwhile, Nevada just suffered their first loss of the tournament to none other than Texas and hopes to face them in a rematch scheduled for Saturday.

The game between Nevada and Florida is set for 7 p.m. ET tonight.

Venezuela defeats Japan 3-2

Venezuela holds off Japan just enough to defeat them 3-2 and advance to the International Championship where they will face Chinese Taipei on Saturday.

Japan continues strong on the field

Japan’s strong defense has been the theme every time they take the field. They did it once again by holding off Venezuela scoreless in the top of the sixth. Japan needs one run to tie and two runs to win.

Venezuela returns the strong defense

Venezuela follows Japan’s lead and swiftly dismisses Japan’s batters in the bottom of the fifth without tying the score. Venezuela is ahead 3-2 going into the sixth.

Japan holds Venezuela in the fifth

Japan maintains defensive momentum and prevents Venezuela from scoring in the top of the fifth inning.

Japan responds and scores in the 4th

After being hit by a pitch, a Japanese player reaches first base. The next batter hits a ball to the outfield, landing between the center and right fielders, and records a double. Japan scored after a bases-loaded walk, which helped them get back into the game.

An infield single gets Japan a second run to make it 3-2, heading to the top of the fifth.

Venezuela gets on the board first

Venezuela gained momentum with back-to-back triples and scored three runs to take the lead. They almost scored a fourth run, but Japan’s right outfielder made a timely catch at the wall for the third out. Venezuela leads 3-0 heading into the bottom of the fourth inning.

Defense a theme for both teams

Defense remains the highlight of the game as Japan holds Venezuela scoreless at the top of the third.

Venezuela saves a run in the 2nd

With two outs and two Japanese runners on base, Venezuela’s second baseman quickly gets an infield hit and throws it to the first baseman to get the runner out, saving a run in a game where every run counts.

Japan’s quick top of the 2nd action

Japan dismisses three Venezuelan batters quickly to end the top of the second inning. Japan is up to bat in the bottom of the second inning.

Venezuela holds Japan scoreless

Japan was able to get some players on base, but a mistake by the final batter, who mistook a strike for a ball, led to the players on base attempting to advance. A throw to third base resulted in Venezuela getting their third out.

Japan dismisses three batters in the 1st inning

Japan enters the game with determination after losing to Chinese Taipei the day before. They quickly dismiss three consecutive Venezuela batters in the top of the first inning.

2024 Little League World Series: Time, TV, streaming and how to watch

All 39 games of the Little League World Series will be broadcast on one of ESPN, ESPN2 or ABC, with streaming options including ESPN+, the ESPN app and Fubo, which offers a free trial. Coverage begins at 3 p.m. ET.

When is the LLWS Home Run Derby?

The sixth annual Little League World Series Home Run Derby will be held on August 22 at 5 p.m. ET. Tune in to ESPN2 to watch the action on Friday, August 23.

What is the LLWS Home Run Derby format?

The Little League World Series Home Run Derby format is straightforward: each participant will receive 1 minute and 30 seconds to hit as many home runs as possible. Any fair balls that land over the fence in fair territory will be considered a home run. However, any balls that land on the chalk or cone line will not be counted as a home run.

All home runs must land before the next pitch is thrown. Any pitch that is thrown before the prior ball lands will not be counted as a home run. After the first round, the top 10 participants will advance to the second round.

In the second round, the 10 participants will have 1 minute and 30 seconds to hit as many home runs as possible. The batting order will be determined by the number of home runs that were hit in the first round, with the participant who hit the lowest total number of home runs batting first. The top five participants with the most total home runs will advance to the final round.

In the final round, the top five participants will each receive 1 minute and 30 seconds to hit as many home runs as possible. The batting order will be determined by the second round, with the participant having the lowest total number of home runs hitting first. At the end of the final round, the participant with the most total home runs will be crowned the T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby Champion.

What teams remain at the LLWS?

Chinese Taipei
Japan
Venezuela
Texas
Florida
Nevada

Little League World Series schedule and bracket:

(All times in ET)

Wednesday, Aug. 14:

Game 1: Mexico 2, Caribbean 0
Game 2: West 3, New England 1
Game 3: Asia-Pacific 8, Canada 0
Game 4: Southeast 2, Midwest 1

Thursday, Aug. 15:

Game 5: Japan 11, Puerto Rico 0
Game 6: Mountain 9, Metro 1
Game 7: Cuba 4, Europe-Africa 1
Game 8: Southwest 9, Mid-Atlantic 0

Friday, Aug. 16:

Game 9: Latin America 10, Mexico 0
Game 10: West 5, Great Lakes 0
Game 11: Asia-Pacific 11, Australia 0
Game 12: southeast 6, Northwest 1

Saturday, Aug. 17:

Game 13: Canada 12, Puerto 5
Game 14: Metro 6, Midwest 3
Game 15: Caribbean 8, Europe-Africa 3
Game 16: Mid-Atlantic 5, New England 0

Sunday, Aug. 18:

Game 17: Metro 4, Great Lakes 0
Game 18: Mexico 8, Canada 0
Game 19: Mid-Atlantic 12, Northwest 2

Monday, Aug. 19:

Game 20: Caribbean 11, Australia 0
Game 21: Japan 2, Latin America 1
Game 22: Mountain 3, West 2
Game 23: Asia-Pacific 10, Cuba 2
Game 24: Southwest 4, Southeast 1

Tuesday, Aug. 20:

Game 25: Latin America 2, Caribbean 1
Game 26: West 3, Mid-Atlantic 1
Game 27: Mexico 6, Cuba 4
Game 28: Southeast 6, Metro 1

Wednesday, Aug. 21:

Game 29: Chinese Taipei 3, Japan 1
Game 30: Texas 5, Nevada 2
 Game 31: Mexico vs. Venezuela on ESPN
Game 32: Florida vs. Hawai’i on ESPN

Thursday, Aug. 22:

Game 33 on ESPN
T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby
Game 34 on ESPN

Friday, Aug. 23:

7 p.m. T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby airing on ESPN

Saturday, Aug. 24:

International Championship: Chinese Taipei vs TBD on ABC at 12:30 p.m.
U.S. Championship on ABC at 3:30 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 25:

Consolation Game on ESPN2 at 10 a.m.
World Series Championship on ABC at 3 p.m.

When is the LLWS championship game?

The Little League World Series (LLWS) championship game is scheduled for Sunday, August 25th at 3 p.m. ET. The third-place consolation game is set to take place the same day at 10 a.m. ET.

The international and U.S. championship games, serving as the semifinals to Sunday’s championship game, will take place on Saturday, August 24 at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. ET.

How does the Little League World Series work?

The Little League World Series is divided into two brackets: the United States bracket and the international bracket. Each bracket will conduct its own individual tournament, and the winner from each bracket will face off in the championship.

The U.S. and international brackets are double-elimination brackets. This means that a team can still advance in a separate elimination bracket even after losing its first game. The winner of the elimination bracket then plays against the winner of the winners’ bracket in the U.S. or international final for the opportunity to compete in the LLWS championship.

In other words, a team must be defeated twice to be eliminated from the tournament.

Little League World Series: Aug. 22 schedule

Thursday’s action begins at 3 p.m., here’s a rundown of the games including the T-Mobile Home Run Derby:

All times Eastern.

Chinese Taipei vs. Venezuela, 3 p.m. | Lamade Stadium | ESPN
The T-Mobile Little League Home Run Derby, 5 p.m. | Volunteer Stadium | ESPN
Florida vs. Nevada, 7 p.m. | Lamade Stadium | ESPN

The 2024 U.S. Regional Champions

Great Lakes – Hinsdale Little League – Hinsdale, Illinois
Metro – South Shore Little League – Staten Island, New York
Mid-Atlantic – Council Rock Newtown Little League – Newtown, Pennsylvania
Midwest – Sioux Falls Little League – Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Mountain – Paseo Verde Little League – Henderson, Nevada
New England – Salem Little League – Salem, New Hampshire
Northwest – South Hill Little League – Puyallup, Washington
Southeast – Lake Mary Little League – Lake Mary, Florida
Southwest – Boerne Little League – Boerne, Texas
West – Central East Maui Little League – Wailuku, Hawaii

The 2024 International Regional Champions

Asia-Pacific – Kuei-Shan Little League – Taoyuan City, Chinese Taipei
Australia – Hills Little League – Sydney, New South Wales
Canada – Whalley Little League – Surrey, British Columbia
Caribbean – Aruba Center Little League – Santa Cruz, Aruba
Cuba – Santa Clara Little League – Villa Clara, Cuba
Europe-Africa – South Czech Republic Little League – Brno, Czech Republic
Japan – Johoku Little League – Tokyo, Japan
Latin America – Cardenales Little League – Barquisimeto, Venezuela
Mexico – Matamoros Little League – Tamaulipas, Mexico
Puerto Rico – Radames Lopez Little League – Guayama, Puerto Rico

Past Little League World Series results

In recent years, teams from the United States have been very successful in the Little League World Series, winning the last five championships since 2017. The most recent international team to win the tournament was Japan, who defeated Lufkin, Texas 12-2 in the 2017 final, which lasted just five innings.

List of past winners:

Results date back to 2010 LLWS.

2023: El Segundo, Calif.
2022: Honolulu
2021: Taylor, Mich.
2020: Canceled due to COVID
2019: River Ridge, La.
2018: Honolulu
2017: Tokyo
2016: Maine-Endwell, N.Y.
2015: Tokyo
2014: Seoul, South Korea
2013: Tokyo
2012: Tokyo
2011: Huntington Beach, Calif.
2010: Tokyo

LLWS bracket and schedule

Here is the full 2024 LLWS bracket, courtesy of the Little League World Series:

We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. USA TODAY Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.