Latest news with #Laureus
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Ariarne Titmus drops massive news on swimming world after move with boyfriend
Ariarne Titmus has opened up on the experience of attending the Laureus World Sports Awards in Madrid with her boyfriend last month, while also revealing she'll definitely make a comeback to swimming after a 12-month break. The Aussie swimming champion has stepped away from the sport for a well-earned break, and won't compete at the world championships in Singapore in July. Titmus revealed after the Paris Olympics last year - where she won two gold and a silver - that she wanted to take a break for at least a year. With no concrete plan for a return to the pool being made public, there had been some speculation that Titmus might be considering walking away for good. But speaking on SEN radio on Wednesday in an interview with Gerard Whateley, the four-time Olympic champion said she's definitely coming back and will be making her return to swimming "in a couple of months' time". She said: "I miss the sense of routine. My life at the moment has been all over the place. "You miss that sense of routine and seeing your coach every day. Dean (Boxall) and I have such a close bond. It's a really rare thing to be working so close to someone and working towards a goal that's so particular." Titmus said she'll "definitely" be competing at the 2028 Olympics in LA if all goes to plan, while also revealing she's only been in the water about five times since Paris. The 24-year-old has spent the last 10 months exploring what she wants to do with her career post-swimming, making multiple appearances in the media and doing a number of speaking events. "It's pretty much been a total break," she said. "I've been trying to keep as fit as possible. I don't want to let myself go too much. "Leading into Paris I'd been vocal with [coach] Dean Boxall and Swimming Australia head coach Rohan Taylor that I needed a break away from the pool of about 12 months. It's been non-stop since I first made the national team when I was 16. "Every year it's been the same where you're scared to take a break and lose your form. I just needed some time away for myself and to truly explore me beyond swimming. I really wanted to take the time just to spend with my family and friends, and I never want to be caught in the trap of retiring one day and not knowing what I want to do." RELATED: Athletics world in disbelief after Aussie beats world champ in 100m Swimming world reacts amid news about Aussie hero Susie O'Neill Titmus' absence from the pool was glaringly apparent last month when she was in Madrid for the Laureus World Sports Awards while her teammates were competing at the national championships in Brisbane. On Wednesday she opened up on what it was like to attend the awards with boyfriend Mack and brush shoulders with some of the most famous athletes in the world. "Becoming Olympic champion has exposed me to some opportunities I would never have had," she said. "I've tried to lean into those as much as possible. [Laureus] is basically like the Oscars of sport. "When I had the opportunity to go over I just said to myself 'I have to go', because you never know when you'll be nominated for another one. It was honestly pinch yourself stuff, just to be around legends who are still competing like (Novak) Djokovic and (Carlos) Alcaraz. Rafa (Nadal) was there, Kelly Slater. "But also legends of the past who I never thought I would ever cross paths with. The night before at a dinner I had Boris Becker on my table. And asking him questions that you would never have the opportunity to ask otherwise. I will remember that for the rest of my life."
Wales Online
15-05-2025
- Health
- Wales Online
Sir Chris Hoy issues new cancer update and admits he 'can't believe' current position
Sir Chris Hoy issues new cancer update and admits he 'can't believe' current position The six-time Olympic gold medallist was diagnosed with cancer in September 2023 after a routine test found he had a tumour in his shoulder and he later discovered the illness was terminal Sir Chris Hoy was revealed in 2024 that he was undergoing treatment for cancer (Image: Angel Martinez, Getty Images for Laureus ) Sir Chris Hoy has delivered an optimistic update on his cancer journey, revealing that he's reached "a bit of a stability stage" and is appreciating life "more than ever". The six-time Olympic champion, now aged 49, was diagnosed with cancer in September 2023 following a routine examination that uncovered a tumour in his shoulder. In February 2024 Sir Chris made it public that he was undergoing treatment, which included chemotherapy. Then in October he shared the heart-wrenching update that his situation was terminal. After tests showed primary prostate cancer that had metastasised to his bones medical professionals advised the iconic British cyclist he could have between two and four years left. Sir Chris has since provided an uplifting health bulletin, stating he "feels good" in spite of the ongoing medication and therapy. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter . SurreyLive reports the Scottish athlete told Sky Sports News: "I'm doing well. It feels like I've entered a bit of a stability stage at the moment and I'm feeling good, exercising, riding a bike, busy. "Most importantly cancer's not the first thing I think about in the morning when I wake up and it's not the last thing I think about when I go to bed at night. I think we've got into a rhythm now where it's part of our lives and we manage that and crack on." Article continues below He also mentioned how active his recent months have been. "It feels like it's been one of the busiest periods of my life, the last few months, just doing everything: fun stuff, family stuff, work, travel. "I feel good. I'm on constant medications, constant treatment, but it's not interfering too much with my life and the most important thing is it's working so I'm stable at the moment, everything's good. Making hay while the sun shines." Sir Chris solidified his status as a British sporting legend by taking home six Olympic gold medals, 11 world championships, and accumulating 34 World Cup wins before retiring from racing in 2013. He added: "I can't believe the position I'm in now compared to 18 months ago. I never imagined I'd be able to get to this point where I'm actually living life. "And not just living life but actually appreciating it more than ever and being able to enjoy the little things. It's not just about doing bucket-list stuff and doing massive things – it's about appreciating the daily, mundane fun of life." Following the announcement of his devastating diagnosis Sir Chris has been showered with affection and support from fans and fellow athletes alike. He has dedicated himself to prostate cancer awareness and advocacy, urging people to go for regular health checks. The impact of his efforts is evident with reports showing a staggering 700% increase in men reaching out to their GPs for screening appointments following the news of his terminal cancer diagnosis. Despite facing enormous challenges he has launched a new initiative, Tour de 4, which is a cycling event designed to shift public perceptions of individuals dealing with stage four cancer. The charity cycle event is scheduled for Sunday, September 7, in Glasgow with the aim of raising more than £1m for UK cancer charities. Article continues below
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Zane Smith earns first Cup Series pole at Talladega
Swedish pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis reflects on 'life-changing' year Mondo Duplantis won his second straight pole vault Olympic gold medal last year at the Paris Games in part of what he described as a 'life-changing' year. While at the Laureus World Sports Awards where he was named Sportsman of the Year, the 25-year-old sat down with CNN World Sport's Amanda Davies to reflect on his past year and his hopes to continue raising the bar ahead of the LA 2028 Summer Olympics. 4:25 Now Playing Paused Ad Playing
Yahoo
29-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Stefanos Tsitsipas Confesses He Has Never Voted In his Entire Life
Greek tennis star Stefanos Tsitsipas recently shared his candid thoughts on politics and personal values during a media interaction, making it clear that he prefers to stay away from political discourse and instead places his faith in the transformative power of sport. 'I don't follow politics, in fact, to be honest, I don't even vote. I've never voted in my life, so that already says I'm not really aware of that kind of thing,' Tsitsipas admitted. His comments reflect a broader sentiment often seen among athletes who prioritize performance, philanthropy, and personal well-being over political engagement. Mar 11, 2025; Indian Wells, CA, USA; Stefanos Tsitsipas (GRE) hits a backhand during his fourth round match against Holger Rune© Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images Rather than politics, Tsitsipas says he believes in the unifying power of sport and its ability to spark change in the world. 'What I believe in is sport — in the power it has to unite people and change things,' he said. It's a philosophy that has shaped much of his public persona, where he's often spoken about the emotional and cultural impact of tennis far beyond the boundaries of the court. Advertisement Tsitsipas also expressed admiration for fellow athletes who use their financial success for good. 'I really admire those athletes who have earned a lot of money and then made donations,' he noted, emphasizing the importance of giving back and leveraging one's platform for meaningful causes. Though he refrains from political activism, Tsitsipas has previously shown interest in environmental efforts, particularly ocean preservation initiatives. His latest remarks reaffirm his preference for impactful, non-political involvement where sports serve as a bridge for global connection and betterment. Tsitsipas' openness offers insight into an athlete who is not afraid to speak his mind and be affected by judgments. While some people might look down upon Tsitsipas' comments about never voting, it doesn't stop Tsitsipas from speaking his mind. After making heads turn at the Laureus awards, Tsitsipas will turn his attention to Madrid Masters, where he is set to feature next.
Mail & Guardian
27-04-2025
- Sport
- Mail & Guardian
Laureus awards at 25: Has Rupert blown the whistle?
Red carpet: South African billionaire Johann Ruper What happens to a grand idea when its visionary steps away? That's the quiet question being asked around the 25th edition of the Laureus World Sports Awards — held this year in Madrid, Spain — an evening of glitz, legends and lofty ideals. But missing from the spotlight was the man without whom the Laureus project might never have come to life — the South African billionaire Johann Rupert. Rupert, who co-founded Laureus in 1999 through Richemont — the Swiss luxury goods company he chairs — was nowhere to be seen at this year's silver jubilee celebration. For an awards body frequently dubbed 'the Oscars of sport', his absence was hard to miss. Whispers rippled through the VIP rooms and media pits: 'Is Rupert done with Laureus?' There's no doubting the legacy of the awards. 'The brainchild of Johann Rupert and the power of our founding patron Nelson Mandela, Laureus continues to impact communities around the world,' said Laureus ambassador and All Blacks great Sean Fitzpatrick. That impact is measurable — over €150 million raised since inception, with 300 social programmes in more than 40 countries reaching close to six million young people. But legacies require ongoing investment — and not just financial. The question is whether Rupert, 74, still has the drive to carry the Laureus vision forward. In Madrid, the celebration was full of heartfelt moments. Olympic pole vault superstar Mondo Duplantis, who claimed the Sportsman of the Year award, kept it simple: 'Sports are the shit,' he said bluntly to the Mail & Guardian. But behind the swagger was sincerity: 'There is nothing in the world that still has the power to unite the world like sport. 'It mobilises the youth and helps so many to aspire to more.' Spanish tennis icon Rafael Nadal, this year's Laureus Sporting Icon, didn't hold back in crediting Rupert. 'Thank you to Mr Rupert for having the inspiration to create something that has lived on for as long as it has — giving hope to so many people, especially those that did not have the opportunities that I, and so many others at these awards, have enjoyed.' For many, Laureus' soul lives in its Sport for Good Foundation, not the red carpets or celebrity panels. Programmes in South Africa, Brazil, India and across Europe focus on conflict resolution, gender equality, education and health — using sport as a gateway to change. Laureus has often claimed 94% of its spending goes directly to grassroots initiatives, with only a fraction used for high-gloss ceremonies. But it's precisely this glossy juxtaposition — Armani suits on one end, muddy soccer boots in a township on the other — that fuels debate about the awards' future. Is this the best way to fund social development through sport? Would the money spent flying celebrities to Madrid be better deployed elsewhere? Tennis legend Rafa Nadal. Surfer legend Kelly Slater, a five-time Laureus recipient, tried to strike a balance. 'There's a lot of awards based on popularity among the public but what makes this so special and offers it continued relevance is the fact that it's the elite of the sporting world that decides you're worthy,' he told the M&G. 'We all have a responsibility to spread sport and joy. I have 300 surfboards that I will eventually give away. Sport is such a simple thing to offer communities.' Indeed, the awards remain unique in their format. Winners are chosen by the Laureus World Sports Academy, a panel of legendary athletes who carry both credibility and continuity. But institutional legacy alone can't guarantee survival. Much of the concern hinges on the future of Richemont's commitment. Since 2000, the company has bankrolled the awards, using its luxury clout to pull in partners like Mercedes-Benz and Nike. These relationships have been instrumental in making the Laureus brand synonymous with both prestige and purpose. But Johann Rupert's appetite for such public philanthropic spectacles is famously unpredictable. He is known to avoid the limelight and is deeply private — which makes his absence at the 25th anniversary potentially more than symbolic. Sources close to the organisation say there's no formal sign of withdrawal yet. But Laureus insiders admit privately that the path forward is uncertain without Rupert's personal buy-in. Is this a vanity project approaching its natural end? Or is it a global institution ready to evolve beyond the influence of its founder? A quarter-century in, that's the tension Laureus now must wrestle with. For every programme pulling kids off the streets through sport, there's a champagne toast in Madrid that raises questions about focus and sustainability. Yet the core belief — that sport can unify, uplift and inspire — remains powerful. 'I don't know if there is anything more impactful than sport in bringing us all together,' Duplantis said. The hope is that the structures behind Laureus can do the same — even if its founder eventually fades from view. What happens when a legacy becomes a burden? Laureus may be about to find out.
