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Dallas Mavericks forward Cooper Flagg’s NBA Summer League run is expected to be over in Las Vegas.

The Mavericks will shut down the rookie for the rest of the exhibition tournament after just two games, according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.

Flagg, who was the No. 1 overall pick coming out of Duke in June, scored 31 points for Dallas in the 76-69 loss to No. 2 pick Dylan Harper and the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday, July 12.

‘I think it’s a new environment, new setting,’ Flagg said after the game on Saturday. ‘They want to see me be aggressive and do that type of stuff.’

It was a stronger performance for Flagg compared to his Summer League output against the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday, July 10. The 6-foot-9 forward admitted after the game on Thursday that he wasn’t entirely pleased with his performance as he adjusted to the pace and play of the NBA game.

He scored 10 points in the first half but went scoreless in the second half, shooting 0-for-9 from the field during the final two quarters of play against the Lakers. Flagg finished the game shooting 5-for-21 from the field.

Who is Cooper Flagg?

Flagg joins the NBA after spending just one season at Duke. 

As a freshman, Flagg started all 37 games that he played in and averaged 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds and 4.2 assists in 30 minutes per game. 

He won the Wooden Award and the Naismith Award.

This post appeared first on USA TODAY

The women of WWE took center stage – and delivered. For the first time in seven years, Evolution took place as WWE held the event dedicated to its stacked women’s division. 

With such a talent roster, seven matches took place rather than the typical five. There was a no-holds-barred match and a battle royal for a title opportunity, but plenty of gold was up for grabs. The top prizes in the division – the WWE Women’s Championship, Women’s World Heavyweight Championship and Women’s NXT Championship – were all on the line, as well as the Intercontinental and Tag Team titles.

The night was full of epic performances and there were shining stars, but nothing topped the crazy ending that completely changes the landscape of the women’s division.

Watch: WWE Evolution post show

Women’s World Championship match: Iyo Sky (c) vs. Rhea Ripley

A fast start got the main event going, and the opponents gave each other props for how quickly they were dealing hits. There was a pause where both said they respected each other before continuing the battle, and Sky had the first real opportunity to get rolling, diving outside of the ring with a moonsault. Sky was feeling the ride she was on before Ripley caught her and threw her onto the edge of the announcer’s table and then the barricade.

Ripley’s power emerged and she was getting frustrated with how Sky was getting back up to everything she was throwing at her, even trying the submission route.

Sky worked her way out of it and soon enough, she was emoting and riding the wave. Sky went to the top turnbuckle but Ripley met her and tried to launch her, but Sky landed on her feet to avoid a catastrophic ending. After a back-and-forth sequence, Sky executed a poisionrana to perfection, but the pin attempt wasn’t enough.

The Over the Moonsault was there for Sky to attempt, and Ripley pushed her to ruin her balance. Then came a Razor’s Edge into a powerbomb from Ripley to the champion. A win looked possible, but Sky kicked out at the last moment. After she couldn’t believe it, Ripley tried to end it for good with a Riptide that Sky got out of. Sky then tried for a kick, but Ripley moved out of the way and the referee got hit. Sky was shocked, and she got hit with a Riptide by Ripley. However, the referee was out and Ripley’s pin attempt wasn’t counted.

A frustrated Ripley hit Sky with a Razor’s Edge again and then took the fight into the crowd, throwing the champion against chairs and railings. Ripley climbed some equipment and attempted a big powerbomb, but Sky realized what was happening. The genius of the Sky went higher and flew high to take out Ripley in the spot of the night.

The action got back into the ring after Sky hit a powerbomb on Ripley. Sky hit her finisher as the referee got back in the ring, but Ripley stunningly kicked out. The champion couldn’t believe it, and dragged Ripley toward the turnbuckle. Ripley bounced her head on the steel. She climbed up and hit a Spanish fly to take both stars out.

Naomi cashes in Money in the Bank briefcase

Caution.

Naomi came out with her Money in the Bank briefcase. She cashed it in and made it a triple threat match. She hit Sky with the briefcase and then threw Ripley out of the ring. She hit her finisher on the champion and pinned Sky to win the championship and steal the spotlight.

Analysis: Proceed with caution in the women’s division.

After a spectacular main event match, the night ends in a stunner as Naomi cashes in and captures the gold. Sky and Ripley put on another thriller that was another five-star caliber match, proving they are without a doubt in an elite class of wrestling. There were too many great spots to highlight, and it was the perfect way to end the night.

But the night belongs to Naomi. She really got bullied in the no holds barred match, and given the result, it felt like the cash-in would happen at the earliest, SummerSlam. But she saw her window and made the most of her opportunity. It’s a reminder of how quickly Money in the Bank can catapult someone, and Naomi did it in the best fashion.

The entire women’s division has been flipped on its head, and with Naomi now the Women’s World Champion, there’s no telling what’s going to happen next. The women struck gold.

Battle royal for championship match at Clash in Paris

To no surprise, Nia Jax wasted no time eliminating people, and she almost had Kelani Jordan, but the former gymnast took a page out of Kofi Kingston’s book and did a handstand to get herself back in the ring.

Slowly the field started to clear, most notably the NXT stars getting out of the match. Women’s United States Champion Giulia was eliminated by Zelina Vega, getting payback for taking her title away. The Secret Hervice was doing all it could to protect Chelsea Green, and Nikki Bella solved some part of the problem by eliminating Alba Fyre, and then eliminating Piper Niven with Stephanie Vaquer.

Green was the recipient of Vaquer’s Devil’s Kiss, and it led to her elimination, making the final four Lash Legend, Jax, Bella and Vaquer. When Bella tried to eliminate Jax, Legend came through with a big kick to take out the WWE Hall of Famer in a stunning move. Legend then picked Jax up in an amazing spot, and got her outside of the rope. Her and Vaquer worked together to eliminate Jax and leave it to the final two.

Vaquer hit a 619 and tried the frog splash, and Legend caught her. She tried to throw her over the rope, but went on the side alongside her. They were tangled and Vaquer was in position for the Devil’s Kiss. She hit her patented move and tossed Legend out of the ring, securing her title opportunity at Clash in Paris.

Analysis: ‘La Primera’ is truly living to her nickname, as the rising star will get the chance for main roster gold in Paris. It was an easy choice to put Vaquer in the role, as her popularity is skyrocketing as much as her talent is. Any other person winning would have caused mass outrage. The only possible option was Bella, but her loss puts her an intriguing spot to see whether she’ll continue in WWE, and what avenue she can go through.

The battle royal MVP was easily Legend, who showed so much promise in the bout and could suddenly find herself in the main roster soon.

No-holds-barred match: Jade Cargill vs. Naomi (with Bianca Belair as special guest referee)

No time was wasted between heated rivals, getting the fight going before Cargill could get in the ring. Cargill threw Naomi against the barricade, and soon afterward, Naomi recovered by delivering shots with a kendo stick. Anything that could be brought into the ring was used, from a chain, garbage can and even a camera. Cargill was leaning against the announcer’s table and Naomi dropkicked her and broke a monitor.

Naomi unleashed a brutal assault on Cargill, sending her through a table and taunting her by wiping blood with her opponents hair. Ms. Money in the Bank was cooking and set Cargill up on a table. But as she got to the top turnbuckle, Cargill got up and hit her with a chair. She then climbed up and executed a flying Jaded from the top rope in a crazy spot. It sent Naomi through the table, and Belair counted the pin as Cargill got another victory over her rival.

Analysis: What a match that was building toward becoming an instant classic, and instead, it comes to an abrupt end. This easily was one of the most brutal women’s no holds barred matches, with any possible weapon used. It was refreshing to see it actually be used since it hasn’t happened much recently.

While it was going great, and the finish was a major spot, it came rather quickly and so sudden, and it’s likely a fault of creative not giving much time. This had the potential to be a much more menacing battle but the finish felt extremely rushed. It’s a disappointment because Naomi and Cargill did so well. But give credit to the competitors for putting up a high-quality match in such little time.

Cargill is now 2-0 against her arch rival, and she continues building toward her title opportunity at SummerSlam. She’s riding all the momentum, but it feels like it’s only a matter of time before Naomi ruins it all, and gets the last laugh.

WWE Women’s Championship match: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Trish Stratus

The veteran and youngster tried to feel each other out in the early stages, taking the safe approach to the match. Stratus showed she still has plenty in the tank with a spectacular hurricanrana out of the ring, and used that to get to her signature skillset. When Stratus attempted her chop, Stratton dodged it and gave her a taste of her own medicine.

Being a sensational athlete, Stratton executed a swanton beautifully, just slightly different than the Prettiest Moonsault Ever. Later, Stratton tried it, but this time Stratus got her knees up to block it. Stratton then countered it with a Stratisfaction. But the pin attempt didn’t work to stun the champion.

Stratus tried a Lita-esque moonsault, but Stratton returned the favor and got her knees up. She got up, picked Stratus up and catapulted her on the mat. Then Stratton attempted her finisher, and this time it landed. She pinned Stratus to retain the title.

After the match, Stratus got a standing ovation from the crowd as she stood in the ring by herself, hinting that possibly could be the final ride for the WWE Hall of Famer.

Analysis: Stratus indeed, still has it. The decorated star hung around with Stratton and delivered plenty of nostalgia, and she could be a full-time wrestler if she wanted to. While it’s enough to be a champion, there wasn’t a chance she’d take down Stratton. The current champion has taken on any and all challengers, and has put up a stellar performance each time. In a moment that could have been seen as a passing of the torch, Stratton gracefully takes it.

If this is it for Stratus, she went out with a bang.

Fatal four-way tag team match for WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship: Raquel Rodriguez and Roxanne Perez (c) vs. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss vs. Sol Ruca and Zaria vs. The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane)

The Kabuki Warriors were feeding off the crowd to start and it got them an early advantage, but Rodriguez came into the fold and completely overpowered anyone that got in her way, showcasing how challenging it would be to dethrone the champions. Then Zaria got the chance to show her stuff to a bigger audience, and the NXT stars teed off on Alexa Bliss.

It was only a matter of time before Flair got in the ring, and Bliss tagged her in and the crowd went crazy. The decorated star cleared the field, and that’s when the chaos unfolded.

There were finishers being done everywhere, from Flair’s spear to Sol Ruca’s Sol Snatcher. Thanks to an accidental spear from Zaria to Sol Ruca, it paved the way for the champions. Rodriguez and Perez cleared the field, and all that was left was Sol Ruca in the ring. Rodriguez picked her up and threw her down on the mat and got the pin to retain the gold.

Analysis: Multiple-tag team matches always turn into a massive frenzy, and that’s what we got in a wild one. There were several fun spots, and the moves that needed to happen were executed to a tee. Every team had a good reason to win, but the champions needed to retain to strengthen what’s going with The Judgment Day.

Now the relationship between Rodriguez and Perez strengthens, and it will make for a quality story with the gold in the mix.

NXT Women’s Championship match: Jacy Jane (c) vs. Jordynne Grace

The challenger flexed her muscles out of the gate, and it looked like it could be quick work for Grace to take the title. But Jayne didn’t back down and held her own in delivering a solid attack. It didn’t last long before Grace’s power was overwhelming. The only way Jayne was able to avoid falling into a deep hole was just moving out of any big shots Grace tried.

Jayne was yelling at Grace any time she tried any move, and it seemed to only fuel Grace to countering what would happen next. Grace went to the top turnbuckle, but Jayne met her to take her down and followed it with a running knee. The pin attempt didn’t work.

Fallon Henley brought the NXT title in the ring to help Jayne, and Blake Monroe stopped it from being used as a weapon. The championship made it in, but Jayne couldn’t use it. The referee got distracted and Monroe had the title in her hands, but when Grace bounced off the turnbuckle, the stunner happened. Monroe hit Grace in the back, and Jayne capitalized with a massive hit to the face. She got the pin, and Monroe delivered the championship to Jayne before walking away.

Analysis: What transitional champion? It felt like Jayne would be giving up the title now that Grace was in the title scene, but instead we have the makings of a potential massive feud. Jayne keeps the title, and her reign still gets a chance to develop her character.

But the bigger story is the development between Grace and Monroe. It felt like we’d get a softer version of Monroe in WWE with her charm being all we’ve seen. Instead, Monroe is going heel, something she’s incredibly great at delivering. It will make for even better television, and Grace will have to face a massive obstacle if she wants WWE gold.

Triple threat match for the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch (c) vs. Bayley vs. Lyra Valkyria

After getting the crowd hyped, Bayley knocked Valkyria and went toe-to-toe with Lynch. Valkyria came back and there was quick action from everyone in the ring. Anytime it looked like someone would establish control, someone would come in and halt any momentum.

The action went outside of the ring, and Lynch finally got in control by throwing Bayley against the barricade. With Valkyria down, Lynch went to work on Bayley and tried to get a quick victory. Bayley withstood the attack, and when Valkyria came back into the match, it allowed the ‘Role Model’ to get to work. She landed shots to both opponents that got the crowd rocking.

Lynch and Bayley met at the top turnbuckle, and Lynch tried the Disarm-Her. Bayley got out of it, and when she did, there was Valkyria launched off the ring to take both stars out. She came close to getting the pin. Lynch then came close with a double DDT and then a Manhandle Slam nearly got her a win, but Bayley broke up the pin attempt. Bayley landed her finisher on the champion, and Valkyria broke up the pin. Valkyria then hit Nightwing on Lynch and that pin didn’t work.

Valkyria and Bayley went back and forth and felt close, but the champion saw the window. Bayley hit the Rose Plant on Valkyria and got the pin attempt, only for Lynch to sneak in and roll Bayley up. The surprise worked to retain the title.

Analysis: What an excellent match to start what should be an incredible night. A blend of seasoned veterans meeting with a rising star made an excellent recipe for a title fight. In triple threat matches, the challenge is for every star the chance to shine. Not only did everyone get chance to strut their stuff, but they went off doing so.

The rivalry has been great and a case could have been made for this match to be the main event. The heat has felt authentic, and Lynch getting the roll up victory should help each challenger build a case for a rematch. It’s hard to pick either Bayley or Valkyria to get the nod, which is why another triple threat match could, and should, happen.

Stephanie McMahon kicks off show

McMahon appears and speaks with Joe Tessitore. She said the women’s division has grown tremendously since the first Evolution.

‘Get ready to be inspired. Because we get to do it all over again,’ McMahon said.

When is Evolution 2025?

WWE Evolution is on Sunday, July 13.

Evolution 2025 start time

Evolution will start at 7 p.m. ET. The preshow begins at 5 p.m. ET.

Where is Evolution 2025?

The event takes place at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.

How to watch Evolution 2025

Evolution 2025 will be streamed on Peacock, but you must have their premium or premium-plus subscription to watch. Internationally, it will be available on Netflix in most markets.

How to watch Evolution 2025 preshow

The Evolution preshow will be available to watch on Peacock, and on WWE’s social channels, including YouTube.

Stream WWE Evolution on Peacock

Evolution 2025 match card

Matches not in order

Battle royal for championship match at Clash in Paris
No holds barred match: Jade Cargill vs. Naomi (with Bianca Belair as special guest referee)
Fatal four-way tag team match for WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship: Raquel Rodriguez and Roxanne Perez (c) vs. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss vs. Sol Ruca and Zaria vs. The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane)
Triple threat match for the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch (c) vs. Bayley vs. Lyra Valkyria
NXT Women’s Championship match: Jacy Jane (c) vs. Jordynne Grace
WWE Women’s Championship match: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Trish Stratus
Women’s World Championship match: Iyo Sky (c) vs. Rhea Ripley

Intercontinental Championship match to kick off show

Who is in Evolution battle royal?

There are at least 14 confirmed participants for the battle royal. It has not been announced how many total contestants there will be.

Nikki Bella
Stephanie Vaquer
Ivy Nile
Nia Jax
Natalya
Maxxine Dupri
Zelina Vega
Giulia
Kelani Jordan
Jaida Parker
Lola Vice
Lash Legend
Izzi Dame
Tatum Paxley

WWE Evolution predictions

USA TODAY Sports give their predictions for Evolution. See the full predictions for how it will unfold here:

Battle royal for championship match at Clash in Paris

Jordan Mendoza: Stephanie Vaquer
Richard Morin: Stephanie Vaquer

No holds barred match: Jade Cargill vs. Naomi (with Bianca Belair as special guest referee)

Jordan Mendoza: Jade Cargill
Richard Morin: Jade Cargill

Fatal four-way tag team match for WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship: Raquel Rodriguez and Roxanne Perez (c) vs. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss vs. Sol Ruca and Zaria vs. The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane)

Jordan Mendoza: Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss
Richard Morin: Raquel Rodriguez and Roxanne Perez

Triple threat match for the WWE Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch (c) vs. Bayley vs. Lyra Valkyria

Jordan Mendoza: Becky Lynch
Richard Morin: Becky Lynch

NXT Women’s Championship match: Jacy Jane (c) vs. Jordynne Grace

Jordan Mendoza: Jordynne Grace
Richard Morin: Jordynne Grace

WWE Women’s Championship match: Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Trish Stratus

Jordan Mendoza: Tiffany Stratton
Richard Morin: Tiffany Stratton

Women’s World Championship match: Iyo Sky (c) vs. Rhea Ripley

Jordan Mendoza: Iyo Sky
Richard Morin: Rhea Ripley

Charlotte Flair is having fun in new role

For the first time in her career, Charlotte Flair is having fun.

That’s not to say there weren’t fun moments. After all, she is a 14-time WWE Women’s Champion – 16-time if you count the two NXT Women’s Championships – a former Women’s Tag Team Champion, and the only woman to win the Royal Rumble twice. Plus, she’s one of five women to ever main event WrestleMania. 

But all those accolades came with immense pressure. How can it not with the Flair last name?

Now, Flair’s shoulders seem lighter. The pressure that has followed every step of her career has come off. For the first time, we’re seeing a different side of Flair in WWE. One that’s more authentic, vulnerable and far from the jet-flying, limousine-riding, high-profile character that’s been in the main event scene for the past decade.

And she’s loving every part of it. 

– Read more about Charlotte Flair here.

WWE brings back Evolution

It’s been desired for years, and WWE finally will hold the second iteration of Evolution. The first one happened in 2018 and was the company’s first all-women event. The historic night hadnine matches take place, and it was headlined by Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair and Ronda Rousey vs. Nikki Bella.

Evolution also caps off what is a busy weekend in Atlanta for WWE. On Saturday, July 12, it held NXT The Great American Bash and Saturday Night’s Main Event later in the night. The weekend is capped off with Evolution.

NXT Great American Bash results

It’s been a big weekend for WWE in Atlanta as Evolution will be the third show in three days from the city. The weekend kicked off with NXT The Great American Bash on Saturday, July 12 afternoon. Here are the results from NXT’s show:

Je’Von Evens def. Jasper Troy
NXT Women’s North American Championship match: Sol Ruca (c) def. Izzi Dame
NXT North American Championship match: Ethan Page (c) def. Ricky Saints
Trick Williams, Joe Hendry and Mike Santana sign contract for TNA Wrestling World Championship match
NXT Championship match: Oba Femi (c) def. Yoshiki Inamura
Jordynne Grace and Blake Monroe def. Jacy Jane and Fallon Henley

Saturday Night’s Main Event results

Another edition of Saturday Night’s Main Event took place less than 24 hours before Evolution. The night was highlighted by Goldberg’s final match. Here are the results:

Randy Orton def. Drew McIntyre
United States Championship match: Solo Sikoa (c) def. Jimmy Uso
LA Knight def. Seth Rollins
World Heavyweight Championship match: Gunther (c) def. Goldberg

Seth Rollins injury update

It won’t affect anything at Evolution, but the talk of the WWE world is the potential devastating injury Seth Rollins suffered at Saturday Night’s Main Event. 

The injury occurred against LA Knight. Rollins attempted a moonsault in the ring when his knee buckled. He immediately went down and grabbed at his right knee as he backed into the corner of the ring and talked to the referee and Paul Heyman. LA Knight tried to attack Rollins but the referee stopped anything from happening.

Once Rollins got back on his feet, LA Knight hit him with the BFT and got the pin for a quick win. After the match, people inside State Farm Arena took photos of medical personnel checking on Rollins. A video of Rollins circulating on social media showed his clear frustration, the wrestler barking expletives and requiring help to leave the ring. 

– Read more about Rollins’ injury here.

The biggest stories, every morning. Stay up-to-date on all the key sports developments by subscribing to USA TODAY Sports’ newsletter.

This post appeared first on USA TODAY

The Trump administration is speeding up its efforts to address a nationwide shortage of Air Traffic Controllers. 

Earlier this year, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a push to hire 2,000 new controllers by the end of the year. 

Inside the Federal Aviation Administration’s Oklahoma City training site, there is cutting-edge simulation technology that gives trainees a real feel for working in the tower. 

According to the FAA, that technology cuts weeks off the time required for certification. Now, federal aviation officials say they’re on track to reach the goal of 2,000 new controllers by mid-September. 

‘Keying up, telling an aircraft to do something is not something that just comes natural to people…It’s learning that phraseology,’ explained Chris Wilbanks, the FAA’s Vice President of Mission Support. ‘It’s making sure that the pilot completely understands the instruction that you just gave him.’ 

Each trainee starts with a 30-day basics course, followed by six to eight weeks of specialized training in both tower and radar operations. 

You impact people’s lives,’ said Wilbanks. ‘They get on an airplane; they make it to their destination safely. They don’t know who got them there, but it’s you.’ 

The push for more air traffic controllers comes as staffing shortages caused delays earlier this year at busy airports such as Newark, New Jersey. 

‘We just put a brand-new simulation in Newark … We do have our problem spots out there. We keep our eyes on it every day,’ Wilbanks said. 

To help meet the demand, Transportation Secretary Duffy launched the Supercharge Initiative earlier this year. Part of that $12.5 billion boost to FAA infrastructure includes $100 million for training. 

July alone has seen the highest number of academy students in training in FAA’s history, with 550 students expected by the end of the month. 

The FAA reports it has shaved more than five months off the administrative process. Students who scored in the top percentile are now being placed into the academy more quickly. 

‘It’s going to take time to address the nationwide controller shortage, but I’m pleased to see our supercharge initiative is taking off. With our new streamlined hiring process, the best and the brightest candidates are starting their careers in air traffic control faster,’ said U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy in a newsletter sent to FOX early Friday. ‘We’ll continue to leverage opportunities big and small to keep chipping away at the shortage to keep our skies safe.’

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS

The 2025 MLB Draft kicked off with a few surprises.

The Nationals selected the youngest-ever No. 1 pick in shortstop Eli Willits from Fort Cobb-Broxton High School in Oklahoma, before the Los Angeles Angels picked right-handed pitcher Tyler Bremner over a plethora of other college pitchers.

The moves allowed for left-hander Kade Anderson, the top-rated pitcher in the draft, to fall to No. 3 overall to the Seattle Mariners and Ethan Holliday, an elite high school hitter, to fall to No. 4 for the Colorado Rockies.

The MLB draft almost never ends up how it’s projected. Here are USA TODAY Sports’ pick grades for the first 32 selections in 2025.

2025 MLB Draft grades

Here are the 2025 MLB Draft grades for the first 32 picks, which includes first round picks, prospect promotion incentive picks and compensation picks.

1. Eli Willits, Washington Nationals: B-

Eli Willits, the youngest player ever selected No. 1 overall (17 years old), goes No. 1 overall in a bit of a surprise. Willits, who attends Fort Cobb-Broxton High School in Oklahoma, was projected to be picked No. 4 to the Colorado Rockies by USA TODAY Sports in the lead up to the draft.

Willits is a do-it-all shortstop, who projects to be a plus defender at the position with a plus hit tool. He still needs plenty development but has an All-Star ceiling.

Willits goes over fellow Oklahoma high schooler Ethan Holliday, and it wouldn’t be surprising if Willits signs for under slot value.

2. Tyler Bremner, Los Angeles Angels: D

While it’s hard to project future success at the MLB level, UC Santa Barbara right-hander pitcher Tyler Bremner was viewed as a mid-first-round pick behind many other highly regarded college pitchers.

Bremner has an elite changeup, but the Angels chose him over the likes of LSU pitcher Kade Anderson, Tennessee’s Liam Doyle and Florida State’s Jamie Arnold, who were all projected to be selected before Bremner.

Maybe the Angels see something in Bremner others don’t, but it’s not the most popular pick at No. 2 overall.

3. Kade Anderson, Seattle Mariners: A+

Seattle gets great value at No. 3 overall, selecting LSU left-hander Kade Anderson, a draft-eligible sophomore.

Anderson, the top pitcher in the class according to MLB Pipeline and Baseball America, led college baseball in strikeouts in 2025 and led the Tigers to a national title as a sophomore.

Anderson falls into a perfect situation with the Mariners, who are known for having one of the best pitching development programs in MLB.

4. Ethan Holliday, Colorado Rockies: A+

Ethan Holliday falls to No. 4 to the Colorado Rockies, where his dad, seven-time All-Star Matt Holliday, started his MLB career.

Holliday, also the younger brother of former No. 1 pick Jackson Holliday, is the top-ranked player in the class, according to MLB Pipeline and Baseball America, and was projected No. 1 overall by USA TODAY Sports.

The Stillwater High School (Oklahoma) product has big-time power at 6-foot-4 and becomes the latest Holliday to enter MLB. Colorado, meanwhile, lands perhaps the best hitter in the draft, and looks to build around the potential cornerstone player.

5. Liam Doyle, St. Louis Cardinals: B

The third college pitcher comes off the board in Liam Doyle, who boasts one of the best fastballs in the class.

Doyle tops out at 100 miles per hour, and put together one of the best seasons in college baseball this season at Tennessee after transferring from Ole Miss. He had a 3.20 ERA with 164 strikeouts in 95 2/3 innings this season, having a huge breakout season to break into the first-round conversation.

The No. 8-ranked player in the class by MLB Pipeline needs to work on some of his secondary offerings but could find himself in the majors very early in his career.

6. Seth Hernandez, Pittsburgh Pirates: A

Pirates go best available, grabbing right-handed pitcher Seth Hernandez at No. 6 overall. Hernandez was mocked No. 6 overall to the Pirates by USA TODAY Sports.

Hernandez, the No. 3-ranked player by MLB Pipeline, has a big 70-grade fastball and also a 60-grade changeup. He’s already 19 years old and has the background of being a high school pitcher and likely needs plenty of development before reaching MLB.

Still, the Corona High School (California) product has high-end upside potential and is a worthwhile pick for the Pirates.

7. Aiva Arquette, Miami Marlins: B+

Aiva Arquette, mocked at No. 3 overall by USA TODAY Sports, falls to No. 7 and Miami pounces. He is the No. 6 overall prospect of the draft, per MLB Pipeline.

Arquette, a 6-foot-5, 22-pound shortstop, was one of the best hitters in college baseball this season at Oregon State and could potentially stay at the position despite his large frame, given his athleticism. He also has the chance to move quickly through the Marlins’ farm system.

The 21-year-old was originally picked in the 18th round by the Arizona Diamondbacks out of high school.

8. Jojo Parker, Toronto Blue Jays: B

Toronto grabs Jojo Parker, a left-handed hitter from Purvis High School in Mississippi.

The Mississippi State commit is one of the top high school hitters in the class, with a 60-grade hit tool and 55-grade power tool, according to MLB Pipeline. He likely projects as a third baseman at the majors, despite playing shortstop in high school.

Parker has a twin brother, Jacob Parker, who’s also expected to hear his name called sometime on Day 1 of the draft.

9. Steele Hall, Cincinnati Reds: B

Cincinnati grabs Steele Hall, a speedy shortstop from Hewitt-Trussville High School in Alabama.

Hall might be the fastest player in the draft, with his speed tool graded at 70, according to MLB Pipeline. He also has a standout glove, with his offensive skills improving as a senior in high school.

The Tennessee commit definitely has the tools to stay at shortstop defensively, with his bat likely determining his future impact at the MLB level.

10. Billy Carlson, Chicago White Sox: B

Another Corona High School product goes in the top 10, as Chicago drafts shortstop Billy Carlson, the teammate of pitcher Seth Hernandez.

Carlson, a Tennessee commit, is the No. 7-rated player in the class, according to MLB Pipeline. He was also mocked No. 7 to the Miami Marlins by USA TODAY Sports.

Carlson has one of the best gloves in the entire draft, rated as a 70-grade tool. His bat needs some development, but he’s a plus-plus defender, also having a 65-grade arm as he was once viewed as a potential two-way player given his prowess on the mound in high school.

11. Jamie Arnold, Athletics: A

Jamie Arnold falls to No. 11, and is scooped up by the Athletics, who get great value in the left-handed pitcher.

Arnold was mocked to Toronto at No. 8 by USA TODAY Sports, as he is ranked as the No. 4 player in the class, according to MLB Pipeline.

Arnold has a funky arm angle, which makes his fastball play up to hitters. He also has a plus-slider, as the polished arm is expected to fly through the minor-league system. Arnold showed big strikeout stuff in college and lands in a good situation with the Athletics.

12. Gavin Fien, Texas Rangers: C

Another high school shortstop comes off the board, as Gavin Fien goes to the Texas Rangers at No. 12.

Fien, the No. 22 player of the class per MLB Pipeline, might be a bit of a reach at No. 12. The Texas commit’s lone grade above 50 is his arm, which is rated a 55.

The 6-foot-3 18-year-old has plenty of room for development, and the Rangers will look to mold the right-handed hitter into a future big leaguer.

13. Gavin Kilen, San Francisco Giants: C

Tennessee infielder Gavin Kilen goes No. 13 overall to the San Francisco Giants.

Kilen, a second baseman at Tennessee, has a plus hit tool with below average power. He was rated the No. 21 player in the class per MLB Pipeline, representing a slight reach for the Giants.

Kilen has a high floor and could certainly develop into an impact big leaguer with his skills-over-tools makeup.

14. Daniel Pierce, Tampa Bay Rays: B+

Tampa Bay selects Daniel Pierce, a shortstop from Mill Creek High School in Georgia.

Pierce has big-time tools, and projects to stick at shortstop and be an impact defender. the 6-foot 18-year-old has below-average power, but has plus speed and an above-average hit tol.

Pierce is a high upside pick for the Rays, which is a worthwhile risk, especially at No. 14.

15. Kyson Witherspoon, Boston Red Sox: A

Oklahoma right-hander Kyson Witherspoon, projected to go No. 9 by USA TODAY Sports, falls to No. 15 for the Boston Red Sox. He is MLB Pipeline’s No. 10-ranked draft prospect.

The Red Sox get good value in Witherspoon, who boasts a big fastball that peaks at 99 mph. His fastball has a 65 grade, according to MLB Pipeline. Witherspoon also has three plus secondary offers in his slider, cutter and curveball, which are all 60-grade pitches.

Witherspoon spun a 2.65 ERA with the Sooners in 2025 and was one of the top pitchers in college baseball.

16. Marek Houston, Minnesota Twins: B-

Wake Forest shortstop Marek Houston goes No. 16 overall to the Minnesota Twins, right around where he was expected to be picked.

Houston, projected No. 16 to the Twins by USA TODAY Sports, is a no-doubt shortstop at the next level and projects as a glove-over-bat player in the majors.

The 21-year-old shortstop will need to hit to be an impact big leaguer, but his glove is certainly good enough to keep him on the field.

17. Ethan Conrad, Chicago Cubs: C+

The first non-shortstop hitter comes off the board, as the Cubs pick Wake Forest outfielder Ethan Conrad to make it back-to-back Demon Deacons picks.

Conrad, the No. 28 player in MLB Pipeline’s draft rankings, finished second in hitting (.385) in the Cape Cod League last summer before missing nearly the entire 2025 season due to injury. The injury likely provided a slight discount on the college hitter.

Conrad could provide great value for the Cubs if he can put the injury behind him.

18. Kayson Cunningham, Arizona Diamondbacks: B+

Kayson Cunningham, a shortstop from Johnson High School in Texas, goes No. 18 to the Diamondbacks.

Cunningham, mocked to Arizona at No. 18 by USA TODAY Sports, has a plus hit tool and can also run, with 60-grade speed, per MLB Pipeline.

Cunningham starred for Team USA at the 18-and-under World Cup qualifier last summer, leading the team with a .417 batting average at the tournament. The left-handed hitter is a filled out, 5-foot-10 infielder and projects as an impact bat.

19. Ike Irish, Baltimore Orioles: A

Auburn catcher/outfielder Ike Irish goes to the Orioles at No. 18, presenting good value for Baltimore.

Irish, the No. 11 player in MLB Pipeline’s rankings, was mocked No. 10 to the White Sox by USA TODAY Sports.

The biggest question mark for Irish is his future position, as he was originally a catcher at Auburn before an injury forced him to the outfield in 2025. He doesn’t project as an above-average glove, with his bat potentially being maximized by a move to the outfield.

Irish was likely the best bat available in the draft, and the Orioles scoop him up.

20. Andrew Fischer, Milwaukee Brewers: B-

Tennessee third baseman Andrew Fischer, the college roommate of No. 5 overall pick Liam Doyle, goes to Milwaukee at No. 20.

The first-year transfer from Ole Miss was one of the best power hitters in college baseball in 2025, slugging 25 home runs for the Vols with a .341 batting average. Fischer provides little value with his glove, so he’ll need to hit to have a spot in the majors.

Fischer is a good bet to be an impactful bat, however, especially after what he showed with the Vols.

21. Xavier Neyens, Houston Astros: A

Shortstop Xavier Neyens goes to Houston at No. 21, as the Astros take a swing for the fences in a high school bat with big-time power.

Neyens is far from the big leagues but has 65-grade power as he stands 6-foot-4. He could develop into an elite MLB hitter one day, although there’s certainly risk with his power-over-hit profile.

Neyens was mocked to Detroit with the No. 24 pick by USA TODAY Sports.

22. Tate Southisene, Atlanta Braves: C-

Atlanta drafts Tate Southisene with the No. 22 pick, which might be an underslot selection for the Braves.

Southisene, the No. 39-ranked player per MLB Pipeline, is a young shortstop from Basic High School in Nevada. Southisene was the Gatorade Player of the Year in Nevada in 2025.

The 5-foot-11 USC commit is a 50-grade prospect and is too young and unknown to know how he projects in the future.

23. Sean Gamble, Kansas City Royals: C

Sean Gamble, who MLB Network calls an athletic version of Ben Zobrist, goes No. 23 overall to Kansas City.

The No. 27-ranked player by MLB Pipeline, who attended IMG Academy in Florida, is a 50-grade prospect and stands 6-foot-1. Average to above-average with every tool, Gamble still needs plenty of development before becoming a big leaguer.

24. Jordan Yost, Detroit Tigers: C-

Detroit selects Jordan Yost, a shortstop from Sickles High School in Florida.

This might be an underslot pick for the Tigers, as Yost is MLB Pipeline’s No. 50 prospect in the draft. the 18-year-old shortstop committed to Florida is a plus runner with an above-average hit tool.

25. Kruz Schoolcraft, San Diego Padres: A

The Padres go with a high-upside high school pitcher in Kruz Schoolcraft, a 6-foot-8 left-hander.

Schoolcraft, who attended Sunset High School in Oregon, stands a whopping 6-foot-8. He has a plus fastball and slider and could develop even further once he reaches the Padres’ system.

26. Gage Wood, Philadelphia Phillies: C

Arkansas right-hander Gage Wood had perhaps the greatest start ever in college baseball at the College World Series in 2025, throwing a no-hitter with 19 strikeouts against Murray State.

Wood has a big 70-grade fastball that peaks at 98 mph, but less-than desirable off-speed pitches that need some seasoning. There’s a chance he turns into a reliever at the next level, but it’s a risk worth taking at No. 26 for the Phillies, as Wood could contribute very quickly.

27. Jace LaViolette, Cleveland Guardians: B+

Texas A&M outfielder Jace LaViolette goes No. 27 to the Guardians, as Cleveland looks to rebuild the former top prospect.

LaViolette was seen as potentially the top player in the class heading into the year but had an inconsistent year for the Aggies. Still, the 6-foot-6 left-handed hitter has big power and could be quite the player if he can improve the hit tool.

28. Josh Hammond, Kansas City Royals: B

Josh Hammond, formerly seen as a better project as a pitcher, was selected No. 28 by the Royals as a position player.

The No. 26-ranked prospect per MLB Pipeline has a 65-grade arm with above-average power. His athletic ability as a former two-way player has him as quite the lottery ticket for the Royals.

29. Patrick Forbes, Arizona Diamondbacks: C+

Patrick Forbes has a plus fastball and an above-average slider and is just scratching the surface with his potential as a pitcher.

The former two-way player became a full-time pitcher in 2025 and took off, ranking third in Division I with 14.8 strikeouts per nine innings.

30. Caden Bodine, Baltimore Orioles: C

Coastal Carolina catcher Caden Bodine is a well below-average runner and has little power, but he does provide loads of value as a defensive catcher.

Bodine starred at the College World Series in 2025 and has been lauded for his framing abilities behind the plate. If he can provide any impact with his bat at the next level, watch out.

31. Wehiwa Aloy, Baltimore Orioles: A

Wehiwa Aloy falls to No. 31 to the Orioles, despite winning the Golden Spikes Award in 2025.

Aloy, who starred at shortstop for Arkansas, is MLB Pipeline’s No. 15 prospect. The physical 6-foot-2 shortstop batted .350 with 21 home runs in 2025.

Orioles get good value with Aloy.

32. Brady Ebel, Milwaukee Brewers: C-

Brady Ebel, the No. 64-ranked player in the class, according to MLB Pipeline, goes No. 32 to the Brewers.

Ebel, the third Corona High School product selected in 2025, is the son of Dino Ebel, who’s the Los Angeles Dodgers’ third-base coach. Ebel is only 17 years old, and the infielder is years of development away from making an impact. He has a strong arm (60 grade), albeit with below-average power (45).

2025 MLB Draft order

Here’s a look at the first-round order for the 2025 MLB Draft, along with prospect promotional picks, compensation picks and Competitive Balance Round A selections.

First round

Washington Nationals
Los Angeles Angels
Seattle Mariners
Colorado Rockies
St. Louis Cardinals
Pittsburgh Pirates
Miami Marlins
Toronto Blue Jays
Cincinnati Reds
Chicago White Sox
Athletics
Texas Rangers
San Francisco Giants
Tampa Bay Rays
Boston Red Sox
Minnesota Twins
Chicago Cubs
Arizona Diamondbacks
Baltimore Orioles
Milwaukee Brewers
Houston Astros
Atlanta Braves
Kansas City Royals
Detroit Tigers
San Diego Padres
Philadelphia Phillies
Cleveland Guardians

Prospect promotion incentive picks

28. Kansas City Royals

Compensation picks

29. Arizona Diamondbacks

30. Baltimore Orioles

31. Baltimore Orioles

32. Milwaukee Brewers

Competitive Balance Round A

33. Boston Red Sox

34. Detroit Tigers

35. Seattle Mariners

36. Minnesota Twins

37. Baltimore Orioles

38. New York Mets

39. New York Yankees

40. Los Angeles Dodgers

41. Los Angeles Dodgers

42. Tampa Bay Rays

43. Miami Marlins

What time is MLB draft today?

Time: 6 p.m. ET
Date: Sunday, July 13
Location: Atlanta

The 2025 MLB Draft is set to start at 6 p.m. ET on Sunday, July 13, from Atlanta. The draft is part of MLB All-Star Week, with the festivities held in Atlanta in 2025.

This post appeared first on USA TODAY

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Chelsea FC won the FIFA Club World Cup, upsetting Champions League winner Paris Saint-Germain 3-0 in the final Sunday at MetLife Stadium.

PSG tried to cap a historic season, winning the French league, the French Cup, the French Super Cup and the club’s first Champions League title in the last year. But Chelsea, which finished fourth in the Premier League last season, thwarted that attempt to hoist the trophy in front of an announced crowd of 81,118 people that included U.S. President Donald Trump.

Speaking to reporters on the tarmac after the game, Trump said, ‘It was a little bit of an upset I guess you would say, but it was a great, great match, very well played, tremendous crowd.’ 

Here’s everything you missed from the PSG vs. Chelsea match today:

Trump awkwardly stands in way of Chelsea’s celebration

Following the awards presentation, the Chelsea team wanted to celebrate, but were clearly waiting for Trump, who was standing next to captain Reece James, to move out of the way. He did not.

After James finally decided it wasn’t worth waiting, the team celebrated, while FIFA president Gianni Infantino casually escorted Trump behind the team so they could celebrate on their own.

Trump booed heading onto the field for trophy ceremony

President Donald Trump was booed by fans as he joined FIFA president Gianni Infantino for the Club World Cup postgame ceremony.

Trump walked onto the pitch at MetLife Stadium, where fans audibly booed him before he stood and waved to the crowd. 

Trump was second in line behind Infantino to congratulate players after the match, including Trump handed Doue the young player of the tournament award, Sanchez the golden glove and Palmer the golden ball for MVP of the match.

The fans booed louder when Trump and Infantino posted with FIFA’s referees for a photo. 

Trump shook players’ hands, giving some players a pat on the back as they walked by him on stage. − Safid Deen

Chelsea’s Club World Cup celebration began after confrontation

PSG coach Luis Enrique appeared to hit Chelsea’s João Pedro in the face as both teams convened on the pitch after the final, which Chelsea won 3-0.

PSG’s Nuno Mendes, who picked up a yellow card for a foul in the closing minutes, also appeared incessant in attempts to confront Chelsea as several players tried to pull him away to diffuse the situation. 

Players from both teams tried to manage the situation, which took several minutes before they separated themselves. 

Chelsea players celebrated with fans in the stands, as PSG players rehydrated on the pitch by their bench after the skirmish. 

Final score: Chelsea 3, PSG 0

A blistering start from Chelsea sealed the deal in this one. PSG had no answer for Chelsea’s early attack. That said, the first half was closer than the score might read. Chelsea only had three shots on goal, all of which found the back of the net. Meanwhile, PSG had two spectacular scoring chances, and if not for terrific efforts from Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez, the first half could have been much closer than the score indicated.

Regardless, in spite of all odds stacked against them, with most the world backing PSG, Chelsea was able to not just win, but win thoroughly, dominating the reigning European club champions and handing PSG their first three-goal loss since October 2023.

Attendance for Chelsea vs. PSG FIFA Club World Cup final

An announced crowd of 81,118 people attended the FIFA Club World Cup final Sunday at MetLife Stadium.Throughout the tournament, FIFA faced criticism about attendance at matches. Photos of empty seats at NFL-sized stadiums went viral on social media, but FIFA president Gianni Infantino said nearly 2.5 million fans attended Club World Cup matches, including fans from 168 countries. “I prefer to put 35,000 people in an 80,000-seat stadium than 20,000 in a 20,000-seat stadium,” Infantino said. FIFA’s president said the Club World Cup has also generated “almost $2.1 billion in revenue’ and that the tournament has had 20 million viewers globally thanks to a broadcasting partnership with DAZN. – Safid Deen

86′ João Neves Red Card

Tensions were high after the Colwill yellow card, and that was evidenced by Neves’ poor decision to pull Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella to the ground by his hair off-ball. The move was clearly in retaliation to something Cucurella did moments earlier, but it was Neves’ reaction that was seen by the referee, prompting the red card.

82′ Levi Colwill Yellow Card

The only thing that can damage Chelsea at this point is losing control of their emotions. After a failed challenge from Colwill, the Chelsea defender was given a yellow card. Colwill’s teammates tried to back up their ally by holding onto the ball and slowing down the free kick, but PSG noticed what was happening and nearly started a fight over it.

Chelsea misses 1-on-1 chance

Moments after James’ injury, Chelsea showed off that incredible counterattack yet again, with a long pass to Liam Delap in PSG territory. Delap was able to scoot past his defender and only had Donnarumma to beat, but a great close-out by Donnarumma plus pressure from the defender on his back forced Delap’s shot wide right.

76′ Reece James injury: Chelsea defender subbed out

It’s been a back and forth second half thus far, but Chelsea’s just suffered a serious blow after defender Reece James was forced out of the game after an injury. James has been a vital player in keeping PSG off the scoreboard, but after an ankle injury at the top of the Chelsea box, he has been replaced by Pedro Neto.

Chelsea still leads 3-0.

Robert Sanchez with the save of the match to maintain Chelsea’s three-goal lead

Paris Saint-Germain is not going down without a fight. Through the first seven minutes of the second half, PSG has had multiple opportunities at the Chelsea net, but none better than Dembélé’s close-range shot. Less than 10 feet from the net, Dembélé placed a shot on goal following a cross. Sanchez dove to his right and pushed the ball out of harm’s way with his right arm, keeping the shutout intact.

How Trump arrived, impacted security

There was a significant security presence around the stadium before the final. Hundreds of officers across multiple law enforcement agencies and stadium security personnel greeted fans as they entered the gates.

Among the agencies present were the Secret Service, Transportation Security Administration, New Jersey State Police — some of whom carried long guns — and K-9 units with bomb-sniffing dogs.

Read the full story from USA TODAY Sports reporter Lorenzo Reyes.

HALFTIME: Chelsea 3, PSG 0

Paris Saint-Germain had a scoring chance after Chelsea’s third goal, forcing Chelsea keeper Robert Sanchez to make a diving stop at the goal line. But the remainder of the first half, including the six minutes of stoppage time, was mostly just PSG seeing their efforts thwarted at every opportunity. Cole Palmer’s two goals and João Pedro’s score have put PSG in a serious hole, one they really haven’t faced for the entirety of the tournament.

43′ João Pedro: Chelsea shocking PSG, leads 3-0

João Pedro scored his third goal of the tournament to put his team up 3-0. After Pedro earned a break to the net, both he and PSG keeper Donnarumma raced for the ball. Pedro got there first, chipping the ball over the sliding Donnarumma and putting the ball in the back of the net.

While PSG has scored four or more goals in three of their Club World Cup contests, going into the second half at such a deficit might be insurmountable.

30′ Cole Palmer goal: Chelsea forward strikes again, pushes team to 2-0 lead vs. PSG

Cole Palmer is having himself a first half. The Chelsea counterattack, in general, has been phenomenal. In this instance, Palmer ran down the right side of the field and cut to the middle after teammate Gusto cut to the net, freezing the defenders. Instead of passing, Palmer took advantage of the pause and planted another goal in the lower-left corner.

Chelsea is off to an early 2-0 lead.

22′ Cole Palmer goal: Chelsea takes 1-0 lead vs. PSG

After PSG defender, Nuno Mendes, lost control of the ball, Chelsea’s Malo Gusto burst up the side and into the penalty area. His left-footed shot was blocked, but a quick recovery and pass to the top of the box gave Cole Palmer a clear shot on goal.

Palmer planted the ball in the lower-left corner of the net, putting Chelsea on top early, ending PSG’s run of 436 consecutive minutes without allowing a goal.

Chelsea off to blistering start to begin Club World Cup final

Although PSG has had a handful of chances, Chelsea was the first team to put their opponents on their heels. Fortunately for PSG fans, the Blue missed a few shots and were not able to take advantage of their opportunities. As the game progressed to the 20-minute mark, PSG started to show why they were so heavily favored prior to the tilt, putting constant pressure on the Chelsea net.

It remains 0-0.

How to watch PSG vs. Chelsea on TV, soccer streams

The match is available to live stream for free on DAZN. The match is also available on TBS in English, with Univision and TUDN in Spanish.

Watch the Club World Cup final with DAZN

What time does PSG vs. Chelsea match in Club World Cup final start?

The match begins at 3 p.m. ET (8 p.m. in London, 9 p.m. in Paris).

Chelsea starting XI

PSG starting XI

Referees for Club World Cup final

The officiating crew for the Club World Cup final was announced on Friday, July 11. Here is the full crew:

Attendance at Club World Cup final

An announced crowd of 81,118 people attended the FIFA Club World Cup final Sunday at MetLife Stadium.Throughout the tournament, FIFA faced criticism about attendance at matches. Photos of empty seats at NFL-sized stadiums went viral on social media, but FIFA president Gianni Infantino said nearly 2.5 million fans attended Club World Cup matches, including fans from 168 countries. “I prefer to put 35,000 people in an 80,000-seat stadium than 20,000 in a 20,000-seat stadium,” Infantino said. 

FIFA’s president said the Club World Cup has also generated “almost $2.1 billion in revenue’ and that the tournament has had 20 million viewers globally thanks to a broadcasting partnership with DAZN. − Safid Deen

PSG vs. Chelsea betting odds for Club World Cup final

Here are the betting odds for the Club World Cup final during regular time, according to BetMGM.

Chelsea: +360
Draw: +280
PSG: -135
Over/under: 2.5 goals

Trump at the Club World Cup Final

After speculation about whether the President would attend the Club World Cup Final, Trump was seen at the stadium. He even appeared briefly on the Jumbotron.

Trump’s entourage includes special envoy Steve Witkoff, first son Donald Trump Jr. and girlfriend Bettina Anderson, and son-in-laws Jared Kushner, who is married to Ivanka Trump, and Michael Boulos, husband to Tiffany Trump. First lady Melania Trump is also accompanying her husband.

Attorney General Pam Bondi, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, retired NFL quarterback Tom Brady, and media magnate Rupert Murdoch have also been spotted in Trump’s suite.

Club World Cup venue: Where is PSG vs. Chelsea match?

The match will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey in the United States.

How much money does Club World Cup final winner win?

The Club World Cup winner will earn $40 million, while the runner-up gets $30 million as part of a $1 billion prize pool for the tournament.

FIFA slashes ticket prices for Club World Cup final

FIFA has lowered prices for tickets to the Club World Cup final in the days leading up to the match between PSG and Chelsea: Here’s how much they’ve dropped.

Does Chelsea have a chance against PSG?

The odds may be stacked in PSG’s favor, but Chelsea knows anything can happen in a one-off match like this Club World Cup final.

“Everyone has them down as strong favorites,” said Chelsea captain Reece James, the only player remaining from Chelsea’s Champions League title in 2020-21, playing in this Club World Cup. “I don’t really care, to be honest. Everyone is bigging up our opposition. We’re preparing right, and we’re going to win.”

PSG hopes to make soccer history

“We really want to make history, and we’re hungry for a win,” PSG’s Brazilian captain Marquinhos said.

Added coach Luis Enrique: “Best season in my career? Maybe. But we need to win Sunday’s game to put icing on the cake.”

FIFA president defends Trump relationship

Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino have built a close relationship, showcased after several visits made by Infantino to the White House in the last year. FIFA also opened a new office inside Trump Tower this week during the Club World Cup.

Club World Cup shows U.S. is ‘real soccer nation’

Major League Soccer commissioner Don Garber believes the FIFA Club World Cup has been an “absolute terrific success,” and has set the stage for an exciting World Cup 2026 next summer.

“The Club World Cup was the story this summer in sport,” Garber told USA TODAY Sports. “I think it did what it was intended to do – to launch something new, take some risk, show some courage, and then set the stage for 2026, which will be another example of soccer and football at its very best. I think the 2026 World Cup will be the most spectacular event in the history of our country.”

When is the World Cup in 2026?

The FIFA World Cup begins in Mexico on June 11, 2026, and the final will be at MetLife Stadium on July 19, 2026. The tournament will be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Chelsea vs. PSG predictions:

Safid Deen, USA Today: PSG 3, Chelsea 1

Deen writes, ‘Chelsea’s Cole Palmer makes a statement with a chilling goal to open the scoring, but PSG’s quality will overwhelm in this one. Ousmane Dembélé, Désiré Doué and Fabián Ruiz score in this match as PSG makes history winning the Club World Cup title.’

Michael Leboff, New York Post: PSG (-1.5)

Leboff writes, ‘Since the end of May, PSG has defeated Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid by a combined score of 15-0. There are just too many ways that PSG can win this match, and it’s hard to see this train coming off the tracks after months of domination.’

James Cormack, Sports Illustrated: PSG 3, Chelsea 1

Cormack writes, ‘This PSG team can get at you in so many ways, and while the Blues will offer collective coherence, they, too, are bound to suffer like many before them. We’re talking about a potentially all-time great team here, and they’ll want to rubber stamp their supremacy by securing their first-ever Club World Cup trophy. It might not be a battering, but it’s hard to envisage anything but a PSG triumph here.’

Darren Richman, New York Times: PSG 3, Chelsea 0

Richman writes, ‘Surely PSG will have too much for Chelsea when it comes to the crunch. Every single time the French club have been tested with a tough opponent over the last year, they’ve passed the test with flying colours. Their counter-attacking style is a joy to behold and even Europe’s best have struggled to find a way to combat a team reaching its zenith.’

Chelsea path to Club World Cup Final

CWC Semifinals: Chelsea 2, Fluminense 0
CWC Quarterfinals: Chelsea 2, Palmeiras 1
CWC Round of 16: Chelsea 4, Benfica 1
CWC Group Stage: Chelsea 3, ES Tunis 0
CWC Group Stage: Flamengo 3, Chelsea 1
CWC Group Stage: Chelsea 2, LAFC 0

PSG path to Club World Cup Final

CWC Semifinals: PSG 4, Real Madrid 0
CWC Quarterfinals: PSG 2, Bayern Munich 0
CWC Round of 16: PSG 4, Inter Miami 0
CWC Group Stage: PSG 2, Seattle Sounders FC 0
CWC Group Stage: Botafogo 1, PSG 0
CWC Group Stage: PSG 4, Atletico Madrid 0

Club World Cup fans take security measures in stride

There was a significant security presence around the stadium before the Club World Cup final, with nearly 100 people representing multiple law enforcement agencies and stadium security personnel greeting fans as they entered the gates. 

The security perimeter, established several hundred feet outside the stadium entrances, featured 15-feet high chained fences on top of concrete bases with entry paths for fans to enter. 

Fans proceeded to walk through a winded line separated by metal barricades until they reached the front, where they walked through metal detectors and got their tickets scanned. If they had any bags, they were asked to check their items into a locker for the duration of the match. 

After entering, fans were able to pick up black and gold Club World Cup squared towels as a keepsake. They also found a clear spot to pose for photos and videos in front of the stadium to commemorate the occasion. 

One woman said it took “two seconds” to enter. Another woman said, “15 seconds.” Other fans said it took about 5-10 minutes to get past security. 

Laura Friedman and Joao Rosa from Brooklyn had to check in their camera bag before they could enter, but took five minutes to clear the obstacle to enter. 

“We had to adjust our timing to get through security,” Friedman said. “But once we figured it out, we were totally fine.”

“We didn’t even know who was playing. We bought tickets before it was announced, and we just wanted to be part of the festivities,” Rosa added. “It’s a big deal. FIFA is coming here, and it’s a once in a lifetime opportunity. I took off from work to be here, and I’m here for fun.” − Safid Deen

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EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — President Donald Trump participated in the FIFA Club World Cup award ceremony after Chelsea beat Paris Saint-Germain, 3-0, in Sunday’s final.

He joined FIFA president Gianni Infantino on the pitch at MetLife Stadium, where fans audibly booed before he stood and waved to the crowd.

The President and First Lady left their box suite at 5:27 p.m. ET, according to the White House pool report. Trump and Infantino walked onto the pitch 15 minutes later, ‘appeared on the jumbotron, and were booed again. There was also some applause, whistling and cheering. The music in the stadium then drowned the boos.’

Trump was second in line behind Infantino to congratulate players and coaches after the match. He shook players’ hands, giving some a pat on the back as they walked by him on stage. He handed PSG’s Désiré Doué the young player of the tournament award, Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez the golden glove and Cole Palmer the golden ball for MVP of the match. Palmer scored the first two of Chelsea’s three goals.

Trump then put medals around the necks of all the referees for the match. The fans booed louder when Trump and Infantino posed with the referees for a photo.

After the awards presentation, Chelsea players gathered to accept the trophy and celebrate as a team. Trump stood with the Chelsea players as they waited to raise the trophy. Infantino eventually pulled Trump behind the players so the team could celebrate.

After the ceremony, Trump was interviewed on the DAZN broadcast and asked who he would consider his GOAT in soccer.

‘Many years ago when I was young, they brought a player named Pelé to play, and he played for a team called the Cosmos,’ Trump responded. ‘… and this place was packed. It was an earlier version of this stadium, but right here in the Meadowlands, and it was Pelé. I don’t want to date myself, but that was a long time ago. I was a young guy, and I came to watch Pelé and he was fantastic.’

Speaking to reporters on the tarmac after the game, Trump said, ‘It was a little bit of an upset I guess you would say, but it was a great, great match, very well played, tremendous crowd.’

USA TODAY reporter Francesa Chambers contributed to this report.

This post appeared first on USA TODAY

Another week, another win for Shane van Gisbergen.

The Trackhouse Racing driver made it back-to-back wins for the first time in his young NASCAR Cup Series career with a dominating victory at Sonoma Raceway.

Van Gisbergen took the pole position for Sunday’s race in Sonoma after sweeping the pole positions and the race wins in both the Xfinity and Cup Series events last weekend in Chicago.

This weekend was a similar story with even more dominance on race day. In all, van Gisbergen led 97 of the 110 laps of the race. He’s by far the top driver on road courses this year with three wins (Mexico City, Chicago, Sonoma) out of four races.

‘Trackhouse Racing gave me a great Chevrolet again. What a great couple of weeks!’ van Gisbergen said after the race. ‘Just to execute, make no mistakes, have great pit stops, great strategy and be able to hold them off there at the end – it’s incredible. Chase (Briscoe) was driving really well. We had a lot of fun there.” 

The New Zealander started Sunday’s race from the pole and kept in front early. He pitted just before the end of Stage 1, ceding the stage win to fellow Trackhouse Racing driver Ross Chastain, and re-took the lead soon after his stop to win Stage 2.

Another pit stop dropped him down the order during Stage 3 but he quickly recovered to take the lead once again by lap 90. He kept control through late caution periods to secure the win.

Chase Briscoe came home second – exactly where he started the race. Chase Elliott, Michael McDowell and Christopher Bell rounded out the top five.

‘I don’t know if I really saw everything (van Gisbergen) had, truthfully,’ Briscoe said after the race. ‘I felt like every time I would get close; he would just start driving back away. We were definitely the second-best car. I don’t really know what more I need – maybe a little bit a grip. But even if I had a little more grip, I don’t know if I’m going to be able to gain the speed that he had.

‘But overall, great day for the Bass Pro Shops Toyota. This is by far my worst race track, so to run second to him, it definitely means a lot, so proud of the day.”

Round three of the in-season challenge saw the 32-driver field whittled down once again. Four drivers remain: Ty Dillon, John Hunter Nemechek, Ty Gibbs and Tyler Reddick.

Dillon and Nemechek square off next week in the top half of the bracket, while Gibbs and Reddick face off to decide the bottom half of the bracket.

The rest of the Cup Series field will have a much better chance at victory next weekend in Dover. That’s also the penultimate round of the NASCAR in-season challenge that will leave two drivers in contention for the $1 million prize.

NASCAR Cup race at Sonoma extended highlights

NASCAR in-season challenge: Round 4 bracket

Thirty-two drivers entered the in-season challenge. After three rounds, just four remain, including just one driver from the top 10 seeds. Here’s the bracket entering Round 4 in Dover:

Top half of bracket

No. 32 Ty Dillon vs. No. 12 John Hunter Nemechek

Bottom half of bracket

No. 23 Tyler Reddick vs. No. 6 Ty Gibbs

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World No. 1 Jannik Sinner denied No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz a three-peat at Wimbledon, winning the latest edition of tennis’ best rivalry in four sets – and avenging his loss to Alcaraz at the French Open.

After dropping the opening set, Sinner took control of the match behind his overpowering serve to win his fourth career Grand Slam title, 4-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4.

Two-time defending champion Alcaraz of Spain was no match for the Italian’s serve, which only seemed to get better as the match progressed. In the end, Sinner was able to prevent the kind of comeback Alcaraz staged at the French.

‘I had a very tough loss in Paris, but at the end of the day it doesn’t really matter how you win or you lose the important tournaments, you have to understand what you did wrong, try to work on that. That’s exactly what we did,’ Sinner said after the match.

‘We tried to accept the loss and just kept working and this is for sure one of the reasons why I hold this trophy right here.’

For Sinner, it was his first Wimbledon title and his first Grand Slam victory on anything other than a hard court – after he won the 2024 and 2025 Australian Open and 2024 U.S. Open. He becomes the first Italian to win the men’s singles title at Wimbledon.

‘We would never have thought we would be in this position back in the days when I was young,’ Sinner said he discussed with his coaches before the match. ‘This was only a dream of the dream because it was so far away where I’m from.

‘I’m just living my dream, so it’s amazing.’

Look back as USA TODAY followed all the action from Centre Court.

Live score: Men’s Wimbledon final

Sinner finishes off Alcaraz in four sets

A brilliant backhand service return down the line gave Sinner an early service break in the fourth set at 2-1. And he never let Alcaraz have an opening to break back.

The two-time defending champion tried to rally the Centre Court crowd behind him, but each time Sinner was able to combat the pressure.

Sinner was able to keep his foot on the accelerator throughout the final set, holding serve to close out the match. His last serve came off his racket at 137 mph, his fastest of the final.

Sinner gains the upper hand after winning third set

Could sweet revenge be in the cards for Jannik Sinner?

Looking to reverse the outcome of their classic French Open final, Sinner took the third set against Alcaraz with a powerful array of shotmaking. On his third break point of the set, Sinner came through with the winner he needed – helping him take control of the match with a two sets to one lead.

With the score even at 4-all and Alcaraz serving, Sinner crushed a forehand winner to put himself in position for the break. He capitalized when Alcaraz slipped on a deep baseline return, putting away the easy backhand volley into the open court.

Sinner then locked down the set with a couple powerful overhead shots and a service winner to close out the set 6-4.

Sinner did not have an ace in the first two sets, but he powered in six during the third.

Sinner evens the match with strong second set

These two tennis titans could be headed for second consecutive instant classic in a Grand Slam final.

After taking the opening set, Alcaraz couldn’t keep the momentum going at the start of Set 2. Sinner bounced back to record a service break in the opening game and – unlike in the opening set – he didn’t let Alcaraz come back.

Showing some uncharacteristic emotion, the usually mild-mannered Sinner gestured after several key points during the set. He closed it out with some great athleticism to win the final point on a cross-court stunner.

Alcaraz takes first set

Carlos Alcaraz rallied from an early deficit to win the final four games and take the opening set against Jannik Sinner.

After both players held serve their first two times, Sinner recorded the match’s first service break in the fifth game, winning the final four points with some aggressive returns.

But Alcaraz battled back to even the set at four games apiece thanks to a pair of unforced errors by Sinner on his serve.

Alcaraz broke Sinner once more to take the set, as Sinner double-faulted at deuce and Alcaraz hit an amazing return that just barely cleared the net for the clinching point.

Sinner, Alcaraz take the court

There’s a slight delay, but we’re now just moments away from the start of the gentlemen’s singles final at Wimbledon.

Alcaraz will serve first.

Matthew McConnaughey, Prince William, Princess Kate on hand

Among the celebrities spotted in the crowd: Actors Keira Knightley and Matthew McConnaughey, and recording artist Seal. There’s a royal presence in the audience as well.

What time is the Wimbledon men’s final?

The 2025 Wimbledon men’s final between No. 1 seed Jannik Sinner and No. 2 seed Carlos Alcaraz is scheduled for Sunday, July 13 at 11 a.m. ET (4 p.m. in London).

What TV channel is the Wimbledon men’s final on?

ESPN is televising the 2025 Wimbledon men’s final between No. 1 seed Jannik Sinner and No. 2 seed Carlos Alcaraz at 11 a.m. ET, following the women’s doubles final.

Is there a live stream of the Wimbledon men’s final?

You can live stream the match between No. 1 seed Jannik Sinner and No. 2 seed Carlos Alcaraz on the ESPN app, Disney+, ESPN+  and Fubo, which carries the ESPN family of networks and is offering a free trial.

Odds to win 2025 Wimbledon men’s final

Although No. 2 seed Carlos Alcaraz was favored to beat No. 1 seed Jannik Sinner on Friday night, according to BetMGM, the odds have flipped as the match has drawn closer. The latest odds Sunday morning now have Sinner as the favorite by a small margin.

Carlos Alcaraz -102
Jannik Sinner -115

What is the weather forecast for Wimbledon men’s final?

The Weather Channel is forecasting mostly cloudy skies for the afternoon of Sunday, July 13, with a temperature of 81 degrees at the start of the match and winds around 5 mph out of the Southeast.

Wimbledon men’s final prize money

The winner of the 2025 Wimbledon men’s singles championship will take home $4.07 million (£3,000,000) in prize money. The runner-up earns $2,060,989 (£1,520,000).

Path to the Wimbledon men’s final

How No. 1 Jannik Sinner reached the final

First round: Defeated Luca Nardi 6-4, 6-3, 6-0
Second round: Defeated Aleksandar Vukic 6-1, 6-1, 6-3
Third round: Defeated Pedro Martinez 6-1, 6-3, 6-1
Fourth round: Defeated No. 19 Grigor Dimitrov 3-6, 5-7, 2-2, retired
Quarterfinals: Defeated No. 10 Ben Shelton 7-6 (7-2), 6-4, 6-4
Semifinals: Defeated No. 6 Novak Djokovic 6-3, 6-3, 6-4

How No. 2 Carlos Alcaraz reached the final

First round: Defeated Fabio Fognini 7-5, 6-7 (5-7), 7-5, 2-6, 6-1
Second round: Defeated Oliver Tarvet 6-1, 6-4, 6-4
Third round: Defeated Jan-Lennard Struff 6-1, 3-6, 5-3, 6-4
Fourth round: Defeated No. 14 Andrey Rublev 6-7 (5-7), 6-3, 6-4, 6-4
Quarterfinals: Defeated Cameron Norrie 6-2, 6-3, 6-3
Semifinals: Defeated No. 5 Taylor Fritz 6-4, 5-7, 6-3, 7-6 (8-6)

How many Grand Slam finals has Jannik Sinner made?

Wimbledon 2025 marks the fifth Grand Slam final for Sinner. He won the 2024 and 2025 Australian Open and the 2024 US Open but lost in the final of the 2025 French Open to Alcaraz.

How many Grand Slam finals has Carlos Alcaraz made?

This is Carlos Alcaraz’s sixth Grand Slam singles final. He has won his five previous major finals, capturing the 2022 US Open, the 2024 and 2025 French Open and the past two Wimbledon titles in 2023 and 2024.

Carlos Alcaraz vs. Jannik Sinner: Head-to-Head

Wimbledon 2025 marks the 13th meeting between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner. Alcaraz has dominated the rivalry, winning eight of the 12 previous contests, including the past five. Their most recent meeting was a five-set thriller in the final of the French Open last month, when Alcaraz rallied from two sets down to win Roland Garros crown.

The duo has met four times total in Grand Slam tournaments. In addition to the 2025 French Open, Alcaraz beat Sinner in the semfinals at Roland Garros in 2024 and the quarterfinals of the 2022 US Open. Sinner won their first Grand Slam meeting in the fourth round of Wimbledon in 2022. — Ellen J. Horrow

Carlos Alcaraz’s career record, prize money

Jannik Sinner’s career record, prize money

Who has the most Wimbledon men’s singles titles?

Roger Federer has the record for most men’s singles titles in the history of the event, winning all of his championships in the Open Era (since 1968). He won the Wimbledon championship eight times during his storied career, with his first victory coming in 2003 and last in 2017. That included a run of five consecutive titles at the tournament from 2003-07. — Jacob Camenker

A total of 9 men have won Wimbledon at least four times. Most titles (*-amateur era; ^-amateur and Open era):

Roger Federer: 8
Novak Djokovic: 7
Pete Sampras: 7
*-William Renshaw: 7
Bjorn Borg: 5
*-Laurence Doherty: 5
*-Reginald Doherty: 4
^-Rod Laver: 4
*-Anthony Wilding: 4

What surface is Wimbledon played on?

Wimbledon generally produces faster tennis and more volleys than the other majors, and balls do not bounce nearly as high. The surface can also be slippery at times, especially compared to hardcourts.

‘You have to be more focused on the footwork here,’ Carlos Alcaraz told The Athletic after winning his second Wimbledon men’s singles championship in 2024. ‘Moving on grass is the key to everything on grass. I can’t slide as I do on clay or on a hard court.’ — John Leuzzi

Where is Wimbledon held?

Location: All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club (London)

The 138th edition of the Wimbledon Championships is being held at the All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club on Church Road in London. It is the 103rd time that the Grand Slam event has been held on Church Road, a streak that dates back to 1922.

The Grand Slam event hasn’t always been held at the All England Club on Church Road, however. From 1877 through 1921, the Wimbledon Championships were held at the former All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet Club location on Worple Road in London. — John Leuzzi

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Former President Joe Biden defended his use of an autopen during a recent interview, shedding light on his administration’s rationale for the controversial use of the technology.

The interview with the New York Times was centered around his use of an autopen during the last pardons that he made during the end of his administration.

In his final weeks in office, Biden granted clemency and pardoned more than 1,500 individuals, in what the White House described at the time as the largest single-day act of clemency by a U.S. president.

Speaking to the Times on Thursday, Biden said that he ‘made every decision’ on his own.

‘We’re talking about [granting clemency to] a whole lot of people,’ the Democrat said.

However, the Times reported that Biden ‘did not individually approve each name for the categorical pardons that applied to large numbers of people,’ according to the former president and his aides.

‘Rather, after extensive discussion of different possible criteria, [Biden] signed off on the standards he wanted to be used to determine which convicts would qualify for a reduction in sentence,’ the Times’s report read.

Instead of repeatedly asking the president to resign updated versions of official documents, his staff used an autopen to put Biden’s signature on the final version.

Biden’s comments came as Republicans attacked him for his autopen use on a massive number of official documents.

In June, President Donald Trump sent a memo to the Department of Justice directing Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate the autopen use, and to determine whether it was related to a decline in Biden’s mental state.

‘In recent months, it has become increasingly apparent that former President Biden’s aides abused the power of Presidential signatures through the use of an autopen to conceal Biden’s cognitive decline and assert Article II authority,’ Trump wrote. 

‘This conspiracy marks one of the most dangerous and concerning scandals in American history. The American public was purposefully shielded from discovering who wielded the executive power, all while Biden’s signature was deployed across thousands of documents to effect radical policy shifts.’

Also in June, Trump told reporters that he thought it was ‘inappropriate’ to use an autopen at all, though past presidents have used them.

‘Usually, when they put documents in front of you, they’re important,’ Trump said. ‘Even if you’re signing ambassadorships or – and I consider that important, I think it’s inappropriate.’

‘You have somebody that’s devoting four years of their life or more to being an ambassador. I think you really deserve that person deserves to get a real signature… not an autopen signature.’ 

Fox News Digital’s Breanne Deppisch contributed to this report.

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Terry Francona and the Cincinnati Reds closed out the first half of the 2025 MLB season on July 13 by making history.

With the Reds’ 4-2 win over the Colorado Rockies at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, Francona earned his 2,000th career win. Francona becomes the 13th manager in MLB history to achieve the mark. The victory improved Cincinnati’s record to 50-47 heading into the All-Star break.

Francona ― who led the Boston Red Sox to two World Series championships in 2004 and 2007 ― has a career record of 2,000-1,719, good for a winning percentage of .538 over 24 seasons coaching the Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Indians/Guardians and Reds. He won the AL Manager of the Year award in 2013, 2016, and 2022 with Cleveland.

Of the 13 coaches with 2,000 career wins, Francona has a better winning percentage than five of them, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer ― part of the USA TODAY Network.

MLB managers with 2,000 career wins

Connie Mack: 3,731-3,948-76
Tony La Russa: 2,902-2,515-4
John McGraw: 2,763-1,948-58
Bobby Cox: 2,504-2,001-3
Joe Torre: 2,326-1,997-6
Bruce Bochy: 2,195-2,206
Sparky Anderson: 2,194-1,834-2
Dusty Baker: 2,183-1,862-1
Bucky Harris: 2,158-2,219-33
Joe McCarthy: 2,125-1,333-29
Walter Alston: 2,040-1,613-5
Leo Durocher: 2,008-1,709-22
Terry Francona: 2,000-1,719*

*Active

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