
Sovereignty triumphs in Belmont; Ruling Court misses Epsom Derby
It was a weekend of soaring highs and unexpected disappointment for the Dubai-owned racing powerhouse, Godolphin — a transatlantic rollercoaster that showcased both their equine riches and the unpredictability of the sport.
In the United States, their star three-year-old Sovereignty confirmed his dominance with an emphatic victory in the G1 Belmont Stakes at Saratoga while just hours earlier and across the Atlantic, Ruling Court was dramatically withdrawn from the Epsom Derby due to deteriorating ground conditions.
Unfazed by the contrasting fortunes, Sovereignty rose to the occasion in Saratoga. Ridden by Junior Alvarado, he delivered another masterclass to stamp his authority as North America's top colt, defeating Journalism — his familiar rival from the Kentucky Derby — with a commanding three-length victory.
A length and a half had separated the duo at Churchill Downs last month in which Sovereignty unleashed a powerful stretch run on a wet track to provide Godolphin with a landmark first success in the Run for the Roses.
On a faster surface this time, Sovereignty was sharp from the gates, travelling sweetly in third early before engaging in a tactical duel with Journalism, who loomed large around the final turn. But once again, it was Godolphin's blue silks that flashed clear inside the final furlong.
Bill Mott, Sovereignty's trainer, summed it up best saying: 'We had a repeat of the Derby – the first three finishers finished 1-2-3 here – and the form is holding up. They are three really good horses and I'm glad that Sovereignty was able to come back and put in a race like he did in the Derby.
'If we hadn't won today, we would have taken a lot of criticism for missing the Preakness, but it turned out good. Sometimes, you make the right decision and a lot of times you make the wrong ones. Today, it really worked out well.'
Michael Banahan, Director of Bloodstock, Godolphin USA, hailed the victory as part of a bigger, long-term vision.
'It's the most fantastic feeling in the world,' he said. 'Sovereignty was trained to the minute by Bill and his team to come here off a five-week rest.
'We decided to head here a few days after the Derby and I feel it was justified with the spectacular performance we saw today.
'We are looking at trying to have the horse for the whole year, and have a whole career with him as well. There are races down the road that we would really like to win – the Travers is very special,' Mott, winner of the inaugural Dubai World Cup in 1996 with Cigar, added.
'It would be great, if the horse is healthy and well, to try and get to Del Mar for the Breeders' Cup Classic.'
Jockey Junior Alvarado commented: 'This is what racing is about, two great horses matching each other. Journalism ran amazing again today after coming back from the Preakness. He fought very hard and didn't make it any easier for my horse. Sovereignty was great today.'
But while celebrations rang out at Saratoga, the atmosphere at Epsom Downs was more subdued. Godolphin's other star colt, Ruling Court, a brilliant winner of the 2000 Guineas, was withdrawn just hours before the Epsom Derby (G1) after persistent rain softened the turf, making conditions unsuitable for the son of high-class Kentucky stallion Justify.
Trainer Charlie Appleby made the difficult decision in consultation with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, placing the horse's wellbeing above all else. The Derby's loss reflected Godolphin's careful strategy to protect their brightest European hopes.
The decision, while disappointing, was understood by all in the camp, including jockey William Buick, who was left without a ride.
'Of course, it's gutting to miss a ride like this,' Buick admitted. 'But when it comes to the horse's safety, you have to be clear-headed. The ground just wasn't right for him.'
Instead of risking Ruling Court on testing ground, connections now eye the St James's Palace Stakes (G1) at Royal Ascot as his next likely target.
With the Ruling Court absent, the Derby unfolded without its anticipated headliner and produced a new one in Lambourn, who made every yard of the running under a sublime ride from Wayne Lordan to hand Aidan O'Brien his record-extending 11th Derby triumph.
'This is the race every jockey dreams of,' said an emotional Lordan. 'To win it like that, from the front, it's unbelievable. I've waited a long time for this.'
Among Godolphin's remaining hopes, Tornado Alert, trained by renowned Emirati handler Saeed bin Suroor, produced a brave effort to finish sixth.
'I was very pleased with the way Tornado Alert ran,' said Bin Suroor, who won the Derby in 1995 with Lammtarra. 'He showed real heart and handled the ground better than we thought he might. It was a very tough race, and he gave everything out there. I'm proud of him.'
In a sport often defined by decisions and the forces of nature, Godolphin lived both sides of the coin this weekend.
The withdrawal of Ruling Court on welfare grounds may have stung but it underscored a long-term philosophy that was vindicated just hours later, as Sovereignty's storming Belmont success reaffirmed the stable's exceptional depth and judgement.
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Khaleej Times
15 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Sovereignty triumphs in Belmont; Ruling Court misses Epsom Derby
It was a weekend of soaring highs and unexpected disappointment for the Dubai-owned racing powerhouse, Godolphin — a transatlantic rollercoaster that showcased both their equine riches and the unpredictability of the sport. In the United States, their star three-year-old Sovereignty confirmed his dominance with an emphatic victory in the G1 Belmont Stakes at Saratoga while just hours earlier and across the Atlantic, Ruling Court was dramatically withdrawn from the Epsom Derby due to deteriorating ground conditions. Unfazed by the contrasting fortunes, Sovereignty rose to the occasion in Saratoga. Ridden by Junior Alvarado, he delivered another masterclass to stamp his authority as North America's top colt, defeating Journalism — his familiar rival from the Kentucky Derby — with a commanding three-length victory. A length and a half had separated the duo at Churchill Downs last month in which Sovereignty unleashed a powerful stretch run on a wet track to provide Godolphin with a landmark first success in the Run for the Roses. On a faster surface this time, Sovereignty was sharp from the gates, travelling sweetly in third early before engaging in a tactical duel with Journalism, who loomed large around the final turn. But once again, it was Godolphin's blue silks that flashed clear inside the final furlong. Bill Mott, Sovereignty's trainer, summed it up best saying: 'We had a repeat of the Derby – the first three finishers finished 1-2-3 here – and the form is holding up. They are three really good horses and I'm glad that Sovereignty was able to come back and put in a race like he did in the Derby. 'If we hadn't won today, we would have taken a lot of criticism for missing the Preakness, but it turned out good. Sometimes, you make the right decision and a lot of times you make the wrong ones. Today, it really worked out well.' Michael Banahan, Director of Bloodstock, Godolphin USA, hailed the victory as part of a bigger, long-term vision. 'It's the most fantastic feeling in the world,' he said. 'Sovereignty was trained to the minute by Bill and his team to come here off a five-week rest. 'We decided to head here a few days after the Derby and I feel it was justified with the spectacular performance we saw today. 'We are looking at trying to have the horse for the whole year, and have a whole career with him as well. There are races down the road that we would really like to win – the Travers is very special,' Mott, winner of the inaugural Dubai World Cup in 1996 with Cigar, added. 'It would be great, if the horse is healthy and well, to try and get to Del Mar for the Breeders' Cup Classic.' Jockey Junior Alvarado commented: 'This is what racing is about, two great horses matching each other. Journalism ran amazing again today after coming back from the Preakness. He fought very hard and didn't make it any easier for my horse. Sovereignty was great today.' But while celebrations rang out at Saratoga, the atmosphere at Epsom Downs was more subdued. Godolphin's other star colt, Ruling Court, a brilliant winner of the 2000 Guineas, was withdrawn just hours before the Epsom Derby (G1) after persistent rain softened the turf, making conditions unsuitable for the son of high-class Kentucky stallion Justify. Trainer Charlie Appleby made the difficult decision in consultation with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, placing the horse's wellbeing above all else. The Derby's loss reflected Godolphin's careful strategy to protect their brightest European hopes. The decision, while disappointing, was understood by all in the camp, including jockey William Buick, who was left without a ride. 'Of course, it's gutting to miss a ride like this,' Buick admitted. 'But when it comes to the horse's safety, you have to be clear-headed. The ground just wasn't right for him.' Instead of risking Ruling Court on testing ground, connections now eye the St James's Palace Stakes (G1) at Royal Ascot as his next likely target. With the Ruling Court absent, the Derby unfolded without its anticipated headliner and produced a new one in Lambourn, who made every yard of the running under a sublime ride from Wayne Lordan to hand Aidan O'Brien his record-extending 11th Derby triumph. 'This is the race every jockey dreams of,' said an emotional Lordan. 'To win it like that, from the front, it's unbelievable. I've waited a long time for this.' Among Godolphin's remaining hopes, Tornado Alert, trained by renowned Emirati handler Saeed bin Suroor, produced a brave effort to finish sixth. 'I was very pleased with the way Tornado Alert ran,' said Bin Suroor, who won the Derby in 1995 with Lammtarra. 'He showed real heart and handled the ground better than we thought he might. It was a very tough race, and he gave everything out there. I'm proud of him.' In a sport often defined by decisions and the forces of nature, Godolphin lived both sides of the coin this weekend. The withdrawal of Ruling Court on welfare grounds may have stung but it underscored a long-term philosophy that was vindicated just hours later, as Sovereignty's storming Belmont success reaffirmed the stable's exceptional depth and judgement.


Khaleej Times
a day ago
- Khaleej Times
Coco Gauff stunned by her own achievement after French Open win
Coco Gauff was dumbstruck after beating world number one Aryna Sabalenka in the French Open final on Saturday, admitting she did not think she had what it takes to stop the Belarusian heavy hitter on Court Philippe Chatrier. The American 21-year-old battled from a set down to beat the top seed 6-7(5) 6-2 6-4 in just over two and half hours and lift her first French Open crown and her second Grand Slam title after the 2023 US Open. "I didn't think honestly I could do it," the American world number two, who claimed her second Grand Slam title, said between tears. "Three finals... I guess I got the most important win - that's all that matters." She had lost the clay court finals in Madrid and Rome before her win in Paris. "I was going through a lot of things when I lost here three years ago," Gauff, who was runner-up to Iga Swiatek in 2022, said. "I'm just glad to be back here. The 21-year-old Gauff, who benefited from her opponent's 70 unforced errors, including six double faults, paid tribute to Sabalenka before posing for pictures with the ball kids. "I would like to thank my parents. You guys have done a lot for me, from washing my clothes to keeping me grounded and giving me the belief that I can do it," she said. "You guys probably believe in me more than I do myself. I really appreciate and love you guys." Taking inspiration from American musician Tyler, the Creator, she said: "If I ever told you I have doubt inside me, I would be lying." She has won both her majors after coming from a set down after her comeback win against Sabalenka at the US Open two years ago. Gauff is also the first American player to lift the trophy since Serena Williams in 2015. "I would like to thank you guys, the crowd helped me today," she told the 15,000 crowd who supported her throughout. "You guys were cheering for me so hard and I don't know what I did to deserve such support from the French crowd," Gauff added, before dropping the lid of the Suzanne Lenglen Cup. Gauff continued a spectacular season for American women at the Grand Slams by winning the French Open. She is the winner in Paris from the United States since her decorated compatriot Serena in 2002. Victory, which follows colleague Madison Keys' Australian Open triumph, helped the erase memories of Gauff's crushing loss to Iga Swiatek in 2022 and confirmed her pedigree on the biggest stage after a breakthrough triumph at the 2023 US Open.

The National
a day ago
- The National
Coco Gauff wins French Open final after epic comeback victory over Aryna Sabalenka
Coco Gauff became a two-time Grand Slam champion on Saturday when she defeated world No 1 Aryna Sabalenka at Roland Garros in three sets. The 21-year-old dropped only her second set of the tournament after losing the opening tiebreaker but fought back in style to level the scores before going on to win 7-6, 2-6, 4-6 after two hours and 38 minutes on a blustery Court Philippe Chatrier. The former US Open champion, who was brushed aside in her first Paris final against Iga Swiatek two years ago, became the first American woman to capture the singles title since Serena Williams in 2015. Gauff is also the youngest player to be win both the Flushing Meadows and Roland Garros crowns since countrywoman Williams in 2002. 'I was going through a lot of things when I lost this final three years ago, so it means a lot to be back and here and to win,' admitted Gauff on court after a final that saw a combined total of 100 unforced errors and 15 breaks of serve. 'Aryna, you are a fighter, you're the number one player in the world and I know today was a tough match but hopefully we will get to play again in the future. 'I want to thank my team. You are always pushing me. I know sometimes I'm not easy to work with, but thank you for everything you do. I appreciate you guys. 'I also want to thank my parents – from washing my clothes to keeping me grounded you always believe in me. You guys are the reason I do this and inspire me more than anything. 'I want to thank the crowd too. You really helped me today, you were cheering so hard and I don't know what I do to deserve so much love from the French crowd but Merci beaucoup. It was a second straight Grand Slam final loss for Sabalenka – who made 70 unforced errors – after her defeat by Madison Keys at the Australian Open in January. And in her on-court interview, the tearful Belarusian apologised to her team calling her performance 'terrible'. 'Honestly guys, this one hurts so much, especially after such a tough two weeks playing great tennis under these terrible conditions,' said Sabalenka who missed out on claiming her first French Open title. 'To show such terrible tennis in the final does really hurt, but it's OK. 'Anyway, congratulations to Coco. In these tough conditions, you were a better player than me. 'Well done on a great two weeks. Congratulations on a second Grand Slam, it is well-deserved. You are a fighter and a hard-worker, so congratulations to you and your team. 'Thank you guys for the atmosphere. I really enjoy every second of being out here playing in front of you all and it was a great two weeks.' It was Sabalenka who drew first blood in the French capital, but only after an enthralling battle that saw the Belarusian storm into a 4-1 lead. But Gauff was to show her resilience battling back to 4-4 only for Sabalenka to again take charge but could not seal the deal as she failed to take two set points at 5-4 and 6-5. A stunning two-handed backhand from Gauff took it to a tiebreak in which Sabalenka ran out a 7-5 winner after a riveting 77-minute long opener on her third set point. The second was more straightforward with Gauff this time roaring to a 4-1 lead, twice breaking her increasingly frustrated opponent, before completing the job and taking the final to a decider. The momentum appeared with Gauff who took charge early on but missed out on going 4-1 up with Sabalenka rescuing two break points and going to level at 3-3. But then, with spots of rain starting to appear in the Paris air, Gauff again went ahead breaking Sabalenka to love with the next two games going to serve. Serving for the match, Gauff was denied on the first championship point when Sabalenka found the line with an inch-perfect shot but won on the second when her opponent fired wide.