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Scottish Sun
27-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
Inside Europe's ‘ketamine capital' so flooded with drug it can be found in sewers as violent gangs cash in on ‘loophole'
The stunning city's Mayor has said the problem threatens to engulf the country. NARCO SWAMP Inside Europe's 'ketamine capital' so flooded with drug it can be found in sewers as violent gangs cash in on 'loophole' Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WELCOME to Europe's "ketamine capital" where the party drug is flooding nightlife, ports and even sewers. As organised crime tightens its grip, traffickers are transforming an iconic city into what could become a full-blown 'narco-state". 11 A ketamine stash worth tens of millions of euros was uncovered by police - thought to be the 'largest ever' haul 11 An armed cop outside a court case where a Dutch 'drugs mafia' case was being heard Credit: AFP/GETTY 11 Brit Jennifer Young, 33, was arrested after flying to Mexico from Amsterdam with 13kg of ketamine 11 Ketamine is strengthening its grip on the hugely popular city of Amsterdam Credit: Getty Amsterdam – the city of canals, coffee shops and carefree nights – is fast becoming something far darker. Mayor Femke Halsema has issued a stark warning: "Without a fundamental change of course, the Netherlands is in danger of becoming a narco-state." If change doesn't come fast, 'violence will reach an all-time high", she added. The city is no longer just a tourist haven with famously relaxed cannabis laws. Instead, it's becoming a hub for global trafficking networks - where violent drug syndicates launder money, exploit legal loopholes and draw in children as young as 14 to work as drug "collectors". Halsema described the situation as "mopping with the tap running". But what was once a niche club drug, Ketamine is now one of Europe's fastest-growing illicit substances - and postcard friendly Amsterdam is now a leading global hub for the crisis. One in four party-goers aged 16 to 35 in the city reported using ketamine in the past year, according to official data. Some are monthly or even weekly users. In the short-term, users can feel its euphoric effects, hallucinations and as though they are floating - taking too much can leave some in a comatose state known as a k-hole. Ket had me peeing every 2 seconds Those taking the drug long term or addicts can suffer from damage to their nasal passageways, liver and kidneys, with some having bladder issues - in large doses, the drug can also be fatal. Users who have kicked the drug described shocking symptoms and spending up to £280 a DAY on their addictions. Officials in Amsterdam have noted a shift in user behaviour - with the mayor's office revealing that the use of ketamine at home "has been rising over the years". This aligns with reports from emergency services, who say incidents involving ketamine are steadily increasing. Festival medics are also reporting more emergency cases. 11 Police on a drugs raid in Amsterdam where Ketamine has become a huge problem. Credit: Politie Eenheid Amsterdam 11 Dutch cops say they are targeting the source of Ketamtine problem Credit: Politie Eenheid Amsterdam And hospitals in Amsterdam are seeing rising numbers of patients suffering from ketamine-related health complications — including bladder damage and mental health crises. 'We do see a rise in the number of clients that report to substance use treatment facilities due to problems with ketamine,' the mayor's office said. The number jumped from 94 cases in 2018 to 440 in 2023. And amid this surge, criminal groups are cashing in. Ketamine's dual status - legal for medical use in countries like the Netherlands and Austria - but illegal for recreational use - makes it ideal for smugglers. Traffickers exploit the medical supply chain, disguising shipments as legitimate pharmaceuticals before they vanish into the black market. Chief Inspector Peter Jansen, a drug expert from the Dutch police, said it's challenging for authorities "to backtrack" and find the source of ketamine shipments. According to Mayor Halsema's office, it's one of the key enforcement challenges. Ketamine falls under medicinal law rather than narcotics legislation. This creates a "legal grey area" that allows it to be imported under legitimate pretences - for veterinary or pharmaceutical use - and then diverted for illicit sale. This loophole - paired with inconsistent drug classifications across Europe - severely hampers enforcement and cross-border cooperation. Belgian and Dutch cops said that the more countries ketamine passes through, the more complex it is to investigate - requiring cooperation among law enforcement organisations. With its extensive transport network, liberal enforcement and central location, Amsterdam has become a key hub in these operations. City officials said: 'The Netherlands functions as a transit hub, processing point, and export gateway in the global drug trade, including ketamine-related activities.' 11 Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema 11 Aerial view of container dock and fuel storage tanks, Amsterdam 11 Ketamine is running rampant in Amsterdam (file photo) Recent seizures around Amsterdam confirmed the city's involvement not just in trafficking, but also as a storage location for large volumes of the drug. In January 2024, police seized two tonnes of ketamine from a shed in Muiderberg, east of Amsterdam - approximately worth a whopping £47million. It was dubbed the largest ketamine haul in Dutch history, Politico reported. Officers discovered other hard drugs on the premises, and arrested a 55-year-old man. Two children found at the property were taken into emergency care. Authorities warned that the ketamine trade is often tied to wider criminal activities, including money laundering and weapons possession. Elsewhere, traffickers used even more elaborate methods. In 2023, customs officials discovered a verified shipment of ketamine travelling from Schiphol Airport to Brussels had been swapped for salt mid-transit. The drug is believed to have been taken into the black market using forged documents and a labyrinth of fake companies, the BBC reported. This is an epidemic. Some criminal gangs are now making more money from ketamine than cocaine Marc Vancoillie Belgian investigators said they identified at least 28 similar cases that year, with around 28 tonnes of ketamine disappearing along the way. "This is an epidemic," Marc Vancoillie, Belgium's drug enforcement chief, said. "Some criminal gangs are now making more money from ketamine than cocaine." Ketamine cases are often uncovered as part of broader anti-drug investigations, the mayor's office explained. Nationally, between 900 and 1,000 criminal probes into organised drug crime occur annually. Ketamine tends to appear as 'bycatch' in cases involving synthetic drugs or poly-drug operations. However, the city noted a relative rise in synthetic drug cases in 2023, likely linked to large-scale ketamine seizures. Brit drug mule The fallout from Amsterdam's booming ketamine trade is being felt far beyond Dutch borders. In 2023, British former beauty queen Jennifer Young, 33, was arrested in Mexico after flying in from Amsterdam with 13kg of ketamine in her suitcase — worth around £250,000. She was facing up to 20 years in a Mexican prison, we reported at the time. Young's story is part of a wider trafficking route: ketamine is manufactured legally in countries like the Netherlands before being diverted into illicit markets as it heads for the UK or the Americas. Smugglers are increasingly relying on front companies to receive legal shipments, which they then funnel into illegal distribution chains. Others use Airbnb rentals as temporary storage depots. In one case, Belgian police traced a rented van back to a short-term let in Staden and uncovered 480kg of ketamine, 117kg of cocaine, and 63kg of heroin. 11 11 Eight British nationals were later charged, according to the BBC. The impact of ketamine's rise isn't just being seen in hospitals and courtrooms — it's showing up in the water supply. A 2024 European wastewater analysis found Amsterdam had the highest average ketamine levels in the Netherlands, with daily readings more than double those of Rotterdam or Utrecht. The figures from the European Union Drugs Agency offer a sobering snapshot of how embedded ketamine has become in Amsterdam life — not just in clubs or on street corners, but quite literally flushed into the city's bloodstream. Amsterdam's liberal drug policies were once seen as a model for Europe. What are the effects of ketamine? KETAMINE is a dissociative anaesthetic known for its unique effects on consciousness, perception, and mood. Recreationally, ketamine is used for its mind-altering and euphoric effects. Users often experience vivid hallucinations, altered perception of time and space, and a feeling of floating or disconnection from their body—commonly referred to as a 'K-hole' at higher doses. These dissociative experiences can be pleasant and dreamlike for some, but disorienting or frightening for others. Recreational use usually occurs in club or party settings, where ketamine is sought for its psychedelic and numbing effects. Physically, ketamine can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, as well as side effects like nausea, vomiting, slurred speech, and impaired motor coordination. At higher doses, users may become unresponsive or experience complete dissociation from reality. But the rapid evolution of the illegal trade has exposed the limits of leniency and left the city at a crossroads. Halsema insisted that the solution is not to abandon the Netherland's user-focused approach, but to push for global reform. She said that international drug laws — driven by prohibition — are helping, not hindering, the growth of violent trafficking networks. The mayor's office also noted: 'Amsterdam's international reputation as a tolerant city is often based on misconceptions.' The coffee-shop model creates the false impression that all drug use is tolerated - while in reality the city strongly opposes illegal trafficking. Amsterdam's appeal to traffickers, they added, lies more in its advanced logistics and financial systems than in local policy. But for now, Amsterdam is feeling the consequences firsthand: record seizures, soaring use, international smuggling routes, and criminal money seeping into the legal economy.
The Irish Sun
27-07-2025
- The Irish Sun
Inside Europe's ‘ketamine capital' so flooded with drug it can be found in sewers as violent gangs cash in on ‘loophole'
WELCOME to Europe's "ketamine capital" where the party drug is flooding nightlife, ports and even sewers. As organised crime tightens its grip, traffickers are transforming an iconic city into what could become a full-blown 'narco-state". Advertisement 11 A ketamine stash worth tens of millions of euros was uncovered by police - thought to be the 'largest ever' haul 11 An armed cop outside a court case where a Dutch 'drugs mafia' case was being heard Credit: AFP/GETTY 11 Brit Jennifer Young, 33, was arrested after flying to Mexico from Amsterdam with 13kg of ketamine 11 Ketamine is strengthening its grip on the hugely popular city of Amsterdam Credit: Getty Advertisement Mayor Femke Halsema has issued a stark warning: "Without a fundamental change of course, the If change doesn't come fast, 'violence will reach an all-time high", she added. The city is no longer just a tourist haven with famously relaxed Instead, it's becoming a hub for global trafficking networks - where violent drug syndicates launder money, exploit legal loopholes and draw in children as young as 14 to work as drug "collectors". Halsema described the situation as "mopping with the tap running". Advertisement But what was once a niche club drug, Ketamine is now one of Europe's fastest-growing illicit substances - and postcard friendly Amsterdam is now a leading global hub for the crisis. One in four party-goers aged 16 to 35 in the city reported using ketamine in the past year, according to official data. Some are monthly or even weekly users. In the short-term, users can feel its euphoric effects, hallucinations and as though they are floating - taking too much can leave some in a comatose state known as a k-hole. Ket had me peeing every 2 seconds Those taking the drug long term or addicts can suffer from damage to their nasal passageways, liver and kidneys, with some having bladder issues - in large doses, the drug can also be fatal. Advertisement Users who have kicked the drug Officials in Amsterdam have noted a shift in user behaviour - with the mayor's office revealing that the use of ketamine at home "has been rising over the years". This aligns with reports from emergency services, who say incidents involving ketamine are steadily increasing. Festival medics are also reporting more emergency cases. 11 Police on a drugs raid in Amsterdam where Ketamine has become a huge problem. Credit: Politie Eenheid Amsterdam Advertisement 11 Dutch cops say they are targeting the source of Ketamtine problem Credit: Politie Eenheid Amsterdam And hospitals in Amsterdam are seeing rising numbers of patients suffering from ketamine-related 'We do see a rise in the number of clients that report to substance use treatment facilities due to problems with ketamine,' the mayor's office said. The number jumped from 94 cases in 2018 to 440 in 2023. And amid this surge, criminal groups are cashing in. Advertisement Ketamine's dual status - legal for medical use in countries like the Netherlands and Austria - but illegal for recreational use - makes it ideal for smugglers. Traffickers exploit the medical supply chain, disguising shipments as legitimate pharmaceuticals before they vanish into the black market. Chief Inspector Peter Jansen, a drug expert from the Dutch police, said it's challenging for authorities "to backtrack" and find the source of ketamine shipments. According to Mayor Halsema's office, it's one of the key enforcement challenges. Ketamine falls under medicinal law rather than narcotics legislation. Advertisement This creates a "legal grey area" that allows it to be imported under legitimate pretences - for veterinary or pharmaceutical use - and then diverted for illicit sale. This loophole - paired with inconsistent drug classifications across Europe - severely hampers enforcement and cross-border cooperation. Belgian and Dutch cops said that the more countries ketamine passes through, the more complex it is to investigate - requiring cooperation among With its extensive City officials said: 'The Netherlands functions as a transit hub, processing point, and export gateway in the global drug trade, including ketamine-related activities.' Advertisement 11 Amsterdam Mayor Femke Halsema 11 Aerial view of container dock and fuel storage tanks, Amsterdam 11 Ketamine is running rampant in Amsterdam (file photo) Credit: BBC Recent seizures around Amsterdam confirmed the city's involvement not just in trafficking, but also as a storage location for large volumes of the drug. In January 2024, Advertisement It was dubbed the largest ketamine haul in Dutch history, Officers discovered other hard Two children found at the property were taken into emergency care. Authorities warned that the ketamine trade is often tied to wider criminal activities, including money laundering and weapons possession. Elsewhere, traffickers used even more elaborate methods. Advertisement In 2023, customs officials discovered a verified shipment of ketamine travelling from Schiphol Airport to Brussels had been swapped for salt mid-transit. The drug is believed to have been taken into the black market using forged documents and a labyrinth of fake companies, the This is an epidemic. Some criminal gangs are now making more money from ketamine than cocaine Marc Vancoillie Belgian investigators said they identified at least 28 similar cases that year, with around 28 tonnes of ketamine disappearing along the way. "This is an epidemic," Marc Vancoillie, Belgium's drug enforcement chief, said. "Some criminal Advertisement Ketamine cases are often uncovered as part of broader anti-drug investigations, the mayor's office explained. Nationally, between 900 and 1,000 criminal probes into organised drug crime occur annually. Ketamine tends to appear as 'bycatch' in cases involving synthetic drugs or poly-drug operations. However, the city noted a relative rise in synthetic drug cases in 2023, likely linked to large-scale ketamine seizures. Brit drug mule The fallout from Amsterdam's booming ketamine trade is being felt far beyond Dutch borders. Advertisement In 2023, British former beauty queen Jennifer Young, 33, was arrested in She was Young's story is part of a wider trafficking route: ketamine is manufactured legally in countries like the Netherlands before being diverted into illicit markets as it heads for the UK or the Americas. Smugglers are increasingly relying on front companies to receive legal shipments, which they then funnel into illegal distribution chains. Others use Advertisement In one case, Belgian police traced a rented van back to a short-term let in Staden and uncovered 480kg of ketamine, 117kg of cocaine, and 63kg of heroin. 11 11 Eight British nationals were later charged, according to the BBC. The impact of ketamine's rise isn't just being seen in hospitals and courtrooms — it's showing up in the water supply. Advertisement A 2024 European wastewater analysis found Amsterdam had the highest average ketamine levels in the Netherlands, with daily readings more than double those of Rotterdam or Utrecht. The figures from the Amsterdam's liberal drug policies were once seen as a model for Europe. What are the effects of ketamine? KETAMINE is a dissociative anaesthetic known for its unique effects on consciousness, perception, and mood. Recreationally, ketamine is used for its mind-altering and euphoric effects. Users often experience vivid hallucinations, altered perception of time and space, and a feeling of floating or disconnection from their body—commonly referred to as a 'K-hole' at higher doses. These dissociative experiences can be pleasant and dreamlike for some, but disorienting or frightening for others. Recreational use usually occurs in club or party settings, where ketamine is sought for its psychedelic and numbing effects. Physically, ketamine can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, as well as side effects like nausea, vomiting, slurred speech, and impaired motor coordination. At higher doses, users may become unresponsive or experience complete dissociation from reality. But the rapid evolution of the illegal trade has exposed the limits of leniency and left the city at a crossroads. Halsema insisted that the solution is not to abandon the Netherland's user-focused approach, but to push for global reform. Advertisement She said that international drug laws — driven by prohibition — are helping, not hindering, the growth of violent trafficking networks. The mayor's office also noted: 'Amsterdam's international reputation as a tolerant city is often based on misconceptions.' The coffee-shop model creates the false impression that all drug use is tolerated - while in reality the city strongly opposes illegal trafficking. Amsterdam's appeal to traffickers, they added, lies more in its advanced logistics and financial systems than in local policy. But for now, Amsterdam is feeling the consequences firsthand: record seizures, soaring use, international smuggling routes, and criminal money seeping into the legal economy. Advertisement
Time of India
04-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Get a younger heart with 5 everyday habits that fit easily in your lifestyle
Ageing is a natural process that affects every organ in the body, including the heart. As people grow older, the heart often becomes less efficient, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease . However, recent research suggests that this decline may not be entirely unavoidable. A new study has found that certain lifestyle choices, combined with new scientific understanding, could play a role in keeping the heart biologically younger for longer. In a study published in Nature Materials, researchers from the Mechanobiology Institute in Singapore have uncovered a surprising factor in heart ageing: the extracellular matrix (ECM). This structural network of proteins and molecules surrounds heart muscle cells (cardiomyocytes) and helps maintain tissue integrity, transmit signals, and support cell repair. Over time, the ECM becomes stiffer and loses elasticity, which can negatively affect heart cell function. Until now, most heart ageing research focused on what happens inside the cells. This study shifts attention to the ECM and how its condition may drive cellular ageing from the outside. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now Undo Reversing Heart Ageing Through Cellular Environment To test the relationship between heart cells and the ECM, researchers created a lab model known as DECIPHER. This system allowed them to grow heart cells within environments that mimicked either young or old ECM. The results were significant. Young heart cells placed in an aged ECM environment began to behave like old cells, showing reduced performance and flexibility. Meanwhile, older cells placed in a young ECM environment regained many functions typically seen in younger cells. These findings suggest that the environment around heart cells plays a more critical role in ageing than previously believed. Assistant Professor Jennifer Young, who led the research, noted that while most studies focus on internal cellular changes, their work highlights the importance of what lies outside the cells. This could open new possibilities for treatments that target the ECM to slow or even reverse heart ageing. 5 Lifestyle Habits That Support a Younger Heart While treatments based on ECM research are still being developed, there are practical steps individuals can take now to support heart health. These habits not only promote a healthy ECM but also reduce the risk of age-related cardiovascular decline: Stay Physically Active Engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each week helps keep blood vessels flexible and supports ECM function. Activities like walking, cycling, or swimming, combined with strength training, are especially beneficial. Get Sufficient Sleep Aim for 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep every night. Poor sleep is linked to increased blood pressure, inflammation, and heart dysfunction—all of which contribute to cardiovascular ageing. Avoid Tobacco and Limit Alcohol Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption have a direct negative effect on heart health and ECM integrity. Steering clear of both can significantly reduce cardiovascular risks. Manage Stress Effectively Chronic stress can lead to hormonal imbalances and inflammation that affect both heart cells and their environment. Mindfulness practices, outdoor time, and relaxation techniques are valuable tools for stress reduction. Eat a Heart-Friendly Diet Nutritional patterns such as the Mediterranean or DASH diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins, have been linked to reduced inflammation and better heart health. It's advisable to limit processed foods and sugary beverages.
The Sun
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
My intimate afternoon with Dave Grohl at The Savoy explains how he won back his wife after his baby with someone else
DAVE Grohl and his wife Jordyn Blum put on a united front as they returned to the Royal Box at Wimbledon in their first public appearance together since it was revealed he had fathered a secret love child with another woman - and I know exactly how he managed to win his partner of 22 years back. Twelve months is a long time in showbiz and it was a different Dave to the one who visited the famous South West London tennis tournament last June. 12 12 They appeared together last year where fans noted he seemed 'snappy and irritated' - but later in the summer the truth about his infidelity emerged. His wife was already well aware of the affair and pregnancy but the mea culpa public announcement was a last ditch attempt to save their relationship. The 56 year old frontman welcomed a baby girl with Jennifer Young, a 38-year-old LA-based, rock-and-roll fan. "I've recently become the father of a new baby daughter, born outside of my marriage", he wrote in the post. "I plan to be a loving and supportive parent to her. "I love my wife and my children, and I am doing everything I can to regain their trust and earn their forgiveness." He added: "We're grateful for your consideration toward all the children involved, as we move forward together. Dave." Since his shock admission, the couple have been trying to get their marriage back on track. In February those close to them revealed that Jordyn, 49, had 'forgiven' her husband. No one was more shocked by the news than me. I have been a huge fan of Dave since the 90s when he was a drummer in Nirvana and I believed he was one of the 'good guys'. I saw the Foo Fighters for the first time in 2003 at the Oxegen Festival in Punchestown, Ireland and was totally obsessed with Dave. Dave Grohl's alleged 15-Year affair and secret love child I remember as a young assistant producer back in 2007 working on BBC Radio 1 the excitement around the station broadcasting live backstage at a Foo Fighters gig in Wembley. Fearne Cotton told me beforehand: 'Dave Grohl is just the nicest man. He's so supportive of new musicians.' I was thrilled when I caught a glimpse of him from afar. It was the same in 2015 at Radio 1's Big Weekend in Norwich. Everyone at all levels had nothing but good things to say about him. I saw first hand the former Nirvana drummer stand at the side of the stage watching Catfish and the Bottleman as well as a then much less famous Taylor Swift take to the stage before them. There was a sense that he wasn't a typical 'rockstar' but a family man as he told the 25,000 strong crowd: "I'm officially obsessed, she might want to get a restraining order. "To my opening band, Taylor Swift. Taylor and the Swifts. My kids will kill me for saying this, but this one is dedicated to Taylor Swift.' While he often had lots of women (me included) swooning in his presence it appeared there was no one he had eyes for apart from Jordyn - who he met in 2001. People always commented about how his eyes lit up when he talked about her and how in love they seemed. 12 'My future ex-wife' He previously revealed he met his wife at the Sunset Marquis Whiskey Bar in Los Angeles in 2001. He was with the band's late drummer Taylor Hawkins, who was chatting up Jordyn's friend. He revealed: 'I spotted these totally hot chicks appear, like a vision - my friend's date and her friend. "They didn't really want to talk to me, probably because I looked gross, so I did what any man in my position would have done: I got them totally drunk. "In the end, I wound up writing, 'You're my future ex-wife' with my number on a piece of paper and giving it to Jordyn. 12 "We started to see each other but then I got a bit freaked out by being in a relationship and stopped calling. "Anyway, we went on tour and our drummer overdosed. [Tayor later died in 2022 from a separate overdose]. It was bad. Really bad. And it made me put things into perspective. "When we got back to LA, I called her up and said, 'Let's go for a drink'. Just to wind me up, she appeared wearing a wedding ring... and we've been together ever since.' I love my wife and my children, and I am doing everything I can to regain their trust and earn their forgiveness Dave Grohl The pair went on to have three daughters together, Violet Maye, 19, Harper Willow, 16 and ten-year-old Ophelia Saint. The whole family often went on tour with the band with Dave sharing previously: 'Having had such a good relationship with my mom and dad, I always imagined I'd have a family myself one day. I just couldn't see it happening while I was playing in a band and going on tour and being a working, travelling musician. "Then it dawned on me that you can do both and, fortunately, we are able to. A lot of people struggle with it and [the band] knows how fortunate we are that we can have the luxury of touring less and having our families come out when we want or need them to.' GROHL MEET UP Having been to see Foo Fighters more times than I can count, I was devastated when I failed to get tickets to see them headline Glastonbury Festival in 2017 - so I was thrilled when I was sent to interview them in London the day before they went to the festival instead. I - along with another newspaper journalist - waited excitedly at the posh five-star Savoy Hotel on the Strand, London for our moment with the band. Eventually, we were ushered into the grand suite with giant opulent velvet sofas and plush floral curtains - it felt like the wrong environment to be sitting down with Dave and his bandmate Taylor. We were offered tea poured into fancy tea cups before the chat about what it meant to them to headline at the Pyramid stage at Worthy Farm meant to them. They had been forced to pull out in 2015 after the frontman fell off the stage and broke his leg in Sweden. I was utterly charmed by them both - particularly Dave who gave enthusiastic answers to all my questions. 12 He was particularly amused when I told him headliner Adele had been scolded the previous year for swearing 33 times in 90 minutes. "You aren't allowed to f**king swear at the show? Good luck,' he warned the BBC. 'Oh god, they are in for a big surprise with that one. Sh*t I didn't realise that. We swear the whole f**king time. I basically say f**king in every sentence. I think I have anxiety driven Tourette's." Even his leg injury was treated with humour admitting: "There is no problem with my leg at all. "The only thing that I can't do it cross my legs. It doesn't even go off going through the security in airport. I'm so f**king bummed. I would love to tell that story." ROYAL CONNECTIONS He also revealed close pal Prince Harry [Foo Fighters played the Invictus Games closing concert in 2014] came to see him while he was recuperating from the operation in London. "Just after surgery, the first person to visit me was Will, the drummer from Coldplay and he brought me a paper. When I got to the hotel then Harry came over. He brought me a gift. It was a pillow you put your iPad on. It was really thoughtful. He's f**king great. Our nanny Alexis came in and it took her five minutes before she realised she was sitting in a room with Prince Harry. He's pretty unassuming. He's great." After posing for a snap, Dave said with a glint in his eye 'Make sure you watch our set'. Of course I tuned in at home. Dave took to the stage and said: 'Yesterday we were doing an interview and someone said 'You know you're not supposed to swear. "There's no swearing at Glastonbury.' I was like 'What the f**k is that supposed to mean?' and I guess Adele holds the record for the most f**ks at Glastonbury. "Now I love Adele but guess what f**k, f**k, f**k….. Ok I think we've broken the record. I think that was more than 33.' I was absolutely bowled over by him mentioning my interview on stage in front of all those people. While recovering from an affair is never easy - I imagine that charm and cheekiness has him get his marriage back on track. There is no doubt the loss of Taylor three years ago had a profound effect on Dave but I'm hoping this outing with Jordyn to the tennis means they are on the road to recovery. Dave Grohl's career timeline Nirvana's beat keeper Grohl first pounded his way into the limelight as the powerhouse drummer for grunge gods, Nirvana. With his thunderous rhythms driving classics like "Smells Like Teen Spirit," he became the heartbeat of a generation. But tragedy struck when frontman Kurt Cobain's untimely demise in 1994 left fans and bandmates reeling. Foo Fighters: From grief to glory Grohl swapped his drumsticks for a guitar and microphone, birthing the Foo Fighters in 1995. The band's debut album, recorded entirely by Grohl himself, was an instant hit. Dave recruited a fine ensemble of musicians to make the band a more collaborative effort and they have gone on to rack up an enviable greatest hits collection including "Everlong", "The Pretender" and "Learn to Fly". Collaborations and cameos: A star-studded rock odyssey! Never one to rest on his laurels, Grohl's star power attracted collaborations with rock titans like Queens of the Stone Age, Nine Inch Nails and Paul McCartney. His uncanny knack for blending genres saw him jamming with everyone from punk legends to pop icons. Documentaries and directorial dreams Grohl's talents extend beyond the stage. He directed the acclaimed documentary "Sound City" in 2013, celebrating the iconic recording studio. His 2014 HBO series "Sonic Highways" took fans on a musical road trip across America, blending history and harmony.
Daily Mail
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Dave Grohl and wife Jordyn Blum return to Wimbledon for star-studded day three after last year's outing at tennis tournament saw rocker 'snappy and irritated' as he battled with secret love child scandal
and his wife Jordyn Blum have returned to Wimbledon in their first public appearance together since it was revealed he has fathered a secret child with another woman. In a full circle moment, the pair had not been seen in public together since last July's outing at the tennis tournament - when fans noted the rocker appeared 'snappy and irritated'. Unbeknownst to onlookers at the time, the rocker had recently cheated on his wife. The following month, the Foo Fighters frontman, 56, welcomed a baby girl with Jennifer Young, a 38-year-old LA-based, rock-and-roll fan - leading him to post a public mea culpa admitting his affair in September. Since Dave's shock admission, the couple have been trying to get their marriage back on track, with sources sharing in February that Jordyn, 49, has 'forgiven' her husband. And the couple put on an united front as they joined a slew of stars for day three of the Wimbledon Championships on Wednesday, taking their seats in the famed Royal Box. During last year's outing at the tournament, Dave sounded annoyed and dismissive as he walked past the reporter and offered gruff, clipped responses. Several commenters on the TikTok clip at the time noted that the usually gregarious Grohl was in an unusually foul mood, with one summing it up: 'Dave has been acting slightly p***y recently.' During an interview, a journalist approached Dave and asked: 'Can I quickly get your prediction for a Wimbledon winner, please?' 'What?' Grohl responded with a quizzical look on his face. 'Who do you think is going to win Wimbledon?' the reporter rephrased himself, to no avail. 'What?' Grohl said again with the same exaggerated expression, as the reporter pressed: 'Who's gonna win? How about the men's [tournament]?' In response, Dave muttered: 'No clue,' as he walked past. 'The women's [winner]?' the reporter added, to which Dave shot back: 'Couldn't say'. While some suggested that Grohl could have more politely brushed off the reporter, other commenters claimed parasocial fans would have found something to be upset about by any response he gave. The Foo Fighters frontman welcomed a baby girl with Jennifer Young in August - leading him to post a public mea culpa admitting his affair the following month Wimbledon's third day will see Carlos Alcaraz return to Centre Court after his thrilling first round match against Fabio Fognini, with the former Champion set to go head-to-head with Brit Oliver Tarvet. It will also see a second round tie between British star Cameron Norrie against the US' Frances Tiafoe, while later this afternoon Emma Raducanu will be on Centre Court as she plays against Markéta Vondroušová. David opted for a smart navy suit and lilac tie while he scraped his unruly locks back in a ponytail. Jordan cut a chic figure in a cream trouser suit and a white lace vest, accessorising with a burgundy leather bag. Both she and Dave were without their wedding rings. Also at the event were Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas - who looked more loved-up than ever. The couple only had eyes for each other as they posed up a storm inside AELTC's Parkside Suite in No.1 Court at the star-studded tournament. They weren't the only cute couple in attendance, with Olivia Rodrigo enjoying a laugh with boyfriend Louis Partridge as they watched the games on Centre Court. Priyanka, 42, exuded glamour on the outing in a white high necked dress that cinched in at her slender waist. By her side, Nick, 32, looked dapper in a navy blazer and cream chinos. Meanwhile, fresh from her headlining slot at Glastonbury, Olivia, 22, was dressed to impress in a scarlet and cream checkered dress. Enola Holmes star Louis, also 22, was sartorially in sync with his superstar girlfriend as he matched a scarlet tie with his navy suit. As Dave and Jordyn enjoyed a stroll around the grounds, Foo Fighters marked the 30th anniversary of the band's classic 1995 debut with the opening salvo of its next chapter: Today's Song. It is the first new Foo Fighters music since 2023's universally acclaimed But Here We Are. In a note to fans, Dave wrote, 'Over the years, we've had moments of unbridled joy, and moments of devastating heartbreak. Moments of beautiful victory, and moments of painful defeat. 'We have mended broken bones and broken hearts. But we have followed this road together, with each other, for each other, no matter what. Because in life, you just can't go it alone. 'It should go without saying that without the boundless energy of William Goldsmith, the seasoned wisdom of Franz Stahl, and the thunderous wizardry of Josh Freese, this story would be incomplete, so we extend our heartfelt gratitude for the time, music, and memories that we shared with each of them over the years. Thank you, gentlemen.' Judy Murray opted for a white crochet top as she was seen chatting with former Spanish tennis player Juan Carlos Ferrero Juan is currently coaching Carlos Alcaraz who is currently ranked world number 2 The rocker also paid tribute to The Foo Fighters longtime, charismatic drummer, Taylor Hawkins, who died at the age of 50 in 2022. An autopsy found that Taylor suffered a 'cardiovascular collapse' after binging on a cocktail of drugs including heroin, marijuana, and opioids. Dave concluded: 'And... Taylor. Your name is spoken every day, sometimes with tears, sometimes with a smile, but you are still in everything we do, everywhere we go, forever. 'The enormity of your beautiful soul is only rivaled by the infinite longing we feel in your absence. We all miss you beyond words. 'Foo Fighters will forever include Taylor Hawkins in every note that we play, until we do finally reach our destination.' Last month, Dave and Jordan were pictured with their family for the first time since the affair was revealed in September. A source told US Weekly in March the couple are giving their 22 year marriage another go. They said: 'Jordyn has forgiven Dave and is trying to move on. She is [still] completely devastated by the situation but is standing by his side. 'They are going to counseling, and Dave has been doing anything he can to win back Jordyn's trust. Neither of them wants the family broken.' While Dave is best known for his career as a Grammy-winning rockstar, he was hit by scandal when he revealed he'd fathered a secret love child Since Dave's admission, the couple have tried to get their marriage back on track, with sources sharing that Jordyn has 'forgiven' her husband (pictured with their children in 2023) As Dave and Jordyn enjoyed a stroll around the grounds, Foo Fighters marked the 30th anniversary of the band's classic 1995 debut with the opening salvo of its next chapter: Today's Song The rocker also paid tribute to The Foo Fighters longtime, charismatic drummer, Taylor Hawkins, who died at the age of 50 in 2022 (pictured in 2005) In February the mother of Dave's lovechild was finally revealed, with Jennifer confirmed to be the woman in question by a report in Page Six. Jennifer also confirmed to the outlet that her baby was born on August 1, 2024, and she said Dave's last name is listed on the birth certificate. Jennifer did not want to reveal their daughter's name, telling the outlet 'because there's some really angry fans,' adding that 'protecting her identity is really important.' In October 2024, a People magazine insider noted that the whole situation has been 'rough' for Jordyn. 'Her mind is not on her marriage though,' they added. 'She doesn't trust Dave. She's not wearing her wedding ring.' Adding that Jordyn is 'focused on her own life and her girls.' A source told People magazine in November 2024 that the rocker is focused on working things out with her and their daughters, and that divorce is off the table. The source said: 'He's no longer working with a divorce attorney and instead hoping to work things out with his wife.' Another insider said that he 'loves his family,' noting that he has 'been prioritizing his family. He knows he messed up. 'It's one of those situations where you don't realize what you have done until you're about to lose it. He doesn't want to lose his family.' Multiple sources have claimed that Jordyn has known about the baby 'for a while,' and said she is a 'great mom and very dedicated to their daughters.' Jordyn and Dave shared daughters Violet, 18, Harper, 15, and Ophelia, 10.
