Thailand's new marriage law opens a destination for same-sex weddings
Bangkok's Siam Paragon mall is giant and sterile, but on a Thursday last month it became a deeply romantic setting for Carlos Medina, 42, and Michael Worth, 60.
After years of waiting for Thailand to legalize same-sex marriage, Medina said, they were among a crowd of more than 100 LGBTQ+ couples being wed. Medina, of the United Kingdom, and Worth, an Argentine, began dating in 2012 in Bangkok, spent more than a decade living together in Thailand and were engaged in 2022.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
4 hours ago
- Yahoo
Cristiano Ronaldo Responds to Idea of Playing Alongside Lionel Messi
Cristiano Ronaldo Responds to Idea of Playing Alongside Lionel Messi originally appeared on Athlon Sports. Cristiano Ronaldo is undoubtedly one of the greatest soccer players of all time. Over the course of his career, he had a sporting rivalry with Lionel Messi. Advertisement The Portuguese star has always been on top of the game, and at age 40, many wonder when he will stop. He continues to score goals and is still a key part of the Portuguese national team. With many not anticipating Ronaldo to stay many more years in professional soccer, many still hope that he will actually decide to play alongside Messi for at least one game as a professional player. Ahead of the UEFA Nations League Final tomorrow between Portugal and Spain, Ronaldo was asked for his thoughts on possibly playing alongside Messi in the near future. The hopeful part for many soccer fans is that he didn't completely shut the idea down. Cristiano Ronaldo on Lionel Messi Ronaldo was very welcoming to hear about Messi and Argentina during a press conference previewing a European game between two European giants in Portugal and Spain. Advertisement When asked if he would ever see himself play with Messi despite both being near the end of their careers, Ronaldo simply praised the Argentine star and the country itself. Cristiano Ronaldo: "You never know [playing with Messi] time is there, you know? I'm already 40 years old, but I always say: 'Never say never.' But I find it very difficult." Cristiano Ronaldo: "Of course, I have affection for Messi. We've been on stage together for 15 years. I remember translating English for him at the Galas because he didn't speak English well. He always treated me well and respected me.' Ronaldo also revealed having interest from Argentine clubs for the FIFA Club World Cup. Despite the respect and admiration for Argentina, he also mentions that it is almost certain he will not participate in the Club World Cup this month. Ronaldo on Lamine Yamal Ronaldo was also asked about the talent of Lamine Yamal. The Portuguese star admits to being impressed by the Spanish teenager and also wishes for the media to avoid pressuring the player. Cristiano Ronaldo: "The kid is doing very well, taking advantage of his talents. Let the kid grow. Don't put too much pressure on him. Let him be and grow well, take the pressure off. He has no shortage of talent." Advertisement A big topic surrounding Yamal is the Ballon d'Or. The youngster is one of the favorites to win it this September, and many voters on undecided with Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha also being top contenders for the prestigious award. Ronaldo gave his thoughts on the Ballon d'Or award and said that the Champions League is key to awarding the winner, which rules out Yamal in contention. Cristiano Ronaldo: "For me, whoever wins the Ballon d'Or must be a player who won the Champions League. I think this award has lost its value.' Related: Relief for Inter Miami With Lionel Messi's New Status On His Future Related: At 40, Cristiano Ronaldo Breaks More Records as Portugal Topple Germany This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 7, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time Magazine
2 days ago
- Time Magazine
The 10 Greatest Soccer Players of All Time According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. Soccer, known as "the beautiful game," has captivated the hearts of millions for over a century. From its humble beginnings in the streets and fields of Europe and South America to its status as the most popular sport in the world, soccer has produced legends who have left an indelible mark on the game. These players transcended their eras, dazzling fans with their extraordinary talent, vision, and unrelenting passion for the sport. What makes a soccer player truly great? It's not just about goals scored or trophies won. It's about the impact they've had on the game, their ability to inspire teammates, and the magic they bring to the pitch. These players have created unforgettable moments, broken records, and embodied the spirit of competition and sportsmanship. In this article, we explore the ten greatest soccer (aka fútbol or football outside of the U.S.) players of all time, with research assistance from ChatGPT. From pioneers who shaped the early years of the sport to modern stars redefining the game, these legends represent the pinnacle of soccer excellence. 1. Pelé Widely regarded as the greatest soccer player of all time, Pelé's skill, vision, and scoring ability revolutionized the game. The Brazilian forward won three World Cups, a feat unmatched in soccer history, and scored over 1,200 goals during his illustrious career. 2. Lionel Messi Lionel Messi is a magician with the ball at his feet. Known for his incredible dribbling, vision, and goal-scoring prowess, Messi has redefined modern soccer. With seven Ballon d'Or titles and numerous records to his name, he continues to inspire fans worldwide. Full Name: Lionel Andrés Messi Nationality: Argentine Era: 2004–Present Notable Achievements: 2022 FIFA World Cup champion, seven-time Ballon d'Or winner Famous Clubs: FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain Legacy: Widely regarded as the most complete player in history 3. Diego Maradona Diego Maradona was a larger-than-life figure in soccer, celebrated for his genius on the field and his colorful personality off it. His "Hand of God" goal and solo effort against England in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals remain some of the most iconic moments in the sport's history. Full Name: Diego Armando Maradona Nationality: Argentine Era: 1976–1997 Notable Achievements: 1986 FIFA World Cup champion Famous Clubs: Napoli, FC Barcelona Legacy: Known for his dribbling and creativity, as well as controversies 4. Cristiano Ronaldo Cristiano Ronaldo is a physical and technical marvel. Known for his goal-scoring ability, athleticism, and work ethic, Ronaldo has won numerous trophies and shattered records during his career. He is the all-time leading scorer in Champions League history. Full Name: Cristiano Ronaldo dos Santos Aveiro Nationality: Portuguese Era: 2003–Present Notable Achievements: Five-time Ballon d'Or winner, five-time UEFA Champions League winner Famous Clubs: Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, Al-Nassr Legacy: Known for his professionalism and longevity 5. Johan Cruyff Johan Cruyff was more than a player; he was a visionary who revolutionized soccer. A pioneer of "Total Football," Cruyff's influence extended beyond his playing career, as he became one of the game's most innovative managers. 6. Zinedine Zidane Zinedine Zidane was elegance personified on the pitch. Known for his impeccable control, vision, and ability to perform in clutch moments, Zidane's career was capped with a stunning volley in the 2002 Champions League final and a World Cup win in 1998. Full Name: Zinedine Yazid Zidane Nationality: French Era: 1989–2006 Notable Achievements: 1998 FIFA World Cup champion, UEFA Champions League winner (2002) Famous Clubs: Juventus, Real Madrid Legacy: Transitioned into a successful managerial career 7. Alfredo Di Stéfano Alfredo Di Stéfano was the heartbeat of Real Madrid's dominance in the 1950s. A complete forward, Di Stéfano could score, create, and dictate the pace of the game, earning him a place among soccer's all-time greats. 8. George Best George Best was a dazzling talent with incredible dribbling and goal-scoring abilities. Despite a career marred by off-field struggles, his brilliance on the pitch remains unforgettable. Full Name: George Best Nationality: Northern Irish Era: 1963–1984 Notable Achievements: 1968 European Cup winner Famous Clubs: Manchester United Legacy: Often referred to as the first celebrity footballer 9. Franz Beckenbauer Franz Beckenbauer, known as "The Kaiser," was the architect of modern defensive play. As a sweeper, he brought elegance and control to the backline while leading Germany to World Cup glory. Full Name: Franz Anton Beckenbauer Nationality: German Era: 1964–1983 Notable Achievements: 1974 FIFA World Cup champion Famous Clubs: Bayern Munich, New York Cosmos Legacy: Innovated the sweeper position 10. Gerd Müller Gerd Müller, "The Bomber," was a prolific goal scorer who dominated in front of goal. His uncanny ability to find the net made him one of the most feared forwards of his time. Conclusion on Top Soccer Players The ten players on this list represent the pinnacle of soccer excellence, showcasing the best the game has to offer. From Pelé's artistry to Ronaldo's unmatched work ethic, these players have inspired generations with their incredible talent and determination. Each brought something unique to the game, leaving a legacy that continues to influence the sport. Soccer's greatest legends remind us of the universal power of the game to unite, inspire, and thrill. Their contributions to soccer go beyond goals and trophies—they've given us moments of pure magic and helped the beautiful game capture the hearts of fans around the world. Related Articles: About the Authors: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn. Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies. Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
Hypebeast
2 days ago
- Hypebeast
Lionel Messi's Favorite Goal Immortalized in Refik Anadol AI Artwork
Of the over 800 goalsLionel Messi's netted over the course of his career, choosing just one favorite is no easy feat, but for the Argentine footballer, his header in the 2009 UEFA Champions League final against Manchester United takes the cake. It's a moment that crowned an unforgettable year for Barcelona, sending the team on a path to win its first treble. Now, that moment is being transformed into art inLiving Memory: Messi – A Goal in Life, a groundbreaking collaboration between Messi and digital artistRefik Anadol, for Inter Miami CF Foundation's A Goal in Life initiative. Taking the form of one of Anadol's acclaimed 'data sculptures,'Living Memory: Messi – A Goal in Lifeis presented as an eight-minute immersive experience rendered in 16K resolution. The 'memory temple,' as the artist described, reimagines the winning header through artificial intelligence, capturing the magic of Messi floating mid-air, sans one boot, as he guided Xavi's pinpoint cross past Edwin van der Sar. 'For me, this work is about transforming the data from Messi's favorite goal into living memory – something that we have never done before,' explained Anadol. Anchored by an 'architecture of action' – an open-source motion-tracking framework – the piece layers millions of data points, including biometric voice data, breathing rhythms, heartbeat patterns and physiological signals from 17 sites mapped on the athlete's body to recreate the movement, visuals and sounds from the iconic moment. 'This isn't about nostalgia. It's about reliving the depth of that split second: what Messi felt, what the crowd felt and what it meant to the world.' On July 8, the one-of-a-kind artwork will make its physical debut at a dedicatedChristie'ssale, with a corresponding exhibition being held at New York's Rockefeller Center from July 12 through 22. Funds from the sale will go toward several nonprofits, including the Inter Miami CF's partnership with UNICEF, which expands access to children's education programs in five countries across Latin America and the Caribbean. Head to Christie'swebsiteto digitally experience the moment that helped define football history.
