Clemson bulldoze Ohio to set up Alabama rematch

(Reuters) - Clemson destroyed Ohio State in a dominating 31-0 victory on Saturday to set up a rematch against Alabama in the College Football national championship game.

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Harden, Harrell ignite Rockets in rout of Clippers

(The Sports Xchange) - James Harden recorded his seventh triple-double of the season while Montrezl Harrell scored a career-high 29 points off the bench to fuel the Houston Rockets' 140-116 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday.

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Nunes stuns challenger Rousey with first-round title win

(Reuters) - Ronda Rousey's effort to reclaim her UFC bantamweight title ended in spectacular failure as champion Amanda Nunes stopped her after just 48 seconds of the first round of their title fight at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Friday.

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Plenty at stake in Sunday's NFL game close to regular season

(Reuters) - A showdown between the Packers and Lions that brings down the curtain on the National Football League's regular season may offer the most drama, but there is much at stake in Sunday's final slate of games.

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Woods gets 'at least one win' next year, says Begay

(Reuters) - Tiger Woods celebrated his 41st birthday on Friday and long-time friend and fellow professional Notah Begay III predicts he will have more to celebrate in a triumphant return to the PGA Tour in 2017.

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Murray loses season opener to Goffin in Abu Dhabi

(Reuters) - World number one Andy Murray started his new season with a surprise 7-6(4) 6-4 loss to David Goffin in the semi-finals of the Mubadala World Tennis Championship in Abu Dhabi on Friday.

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Colts linebacker Mathis to retire after season finale

(The Sports Xchange) - Indianapolis Colts linebacker Robert Mathis announced on Friday he will retire after Sunday's game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, ending 14 years with the organization.

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Serena lands in New Zealand ahead of season opener

AUCKLAND (Reuters) - Newly-engaged Serena Williams touched down in Auckland on Friday and quickly made her way to the court to hit some balls ahead of the start of her 2017 season.

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Warriors spoil DeRozan's record achievement

(The Sports Xchange) - Klay Thompson scored 12 of his 21 points in Golden State's 42-point first quarter on Wednesday, which propelled the Warriors to a 121-111 victory over the Toronto Raptors.

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ESPN posts second-worst 'Monday Night Football' season

(Reuters) - If not for this past Monday night's highly watched NFL game, The Walt Disney Co's ESPN network would have had its smallest audience for "Monday Night Football" in 2016 since the 2006 season.

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Former NFL player Carpenter dies aged 39

(The Sports Xchange) - Former NFL safety and philanthropist Keion Carpenter died on Thursday morning at the age of 39, one day after collapsing on a run while on holiday in Miami, a family spokesman said.

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Heisman Trophy winner Rashaan Salaam committed suicide: coroner

(Reuters) - The death of Rashaan Salaam, a winner of college football's Heisman Trophy whose body was found in a city park this month in Boulder, Colorado, was ruled a suicide by a county coroner on Thursday.

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Woods worth $740 million, Jordan a billionaire says Forbes

(Reuters) - Golfers Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson and former NBA player Michael Jordan are among the 20 wealthiest American celebrities, Forbes reported on Wednesday.

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Anthony ejected for flagrant foul as Knicks fall to Hawks

(Reuters) - New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony was ejected for a flagrant foul during the game against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday as tempers flared again in the National Basketball Association.

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Bucs' RB Martin suspended four games for doping violation

(Reuters) - Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Doug Martin has been suspended four games for violating the NFL's performance-enhancing drug policy and said on Wednesday he was entering a treatment facility.

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Interim Bills coach says benching QB Taylor business decision

(The Sports Xchange) - EJ Manuel will start at quarterback for the Buffalo Bills on Sunday, but interim head coach Anthony Lynn made it clear the decision to bench Tyrod Taylor in the season finale came from the front office.

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Former world number one Ivanovic retires at age 29

BELGRADE (Reuters) - Former French Open champion Ana Ivanovic has retired from tennis at the age of 29, the Serbian said on Facebook on Wednesday.

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US-Canada-Mexico 2026 World Cup bid a possibility: CONCACAF President

DUBAI (Reuters) - Football officials from the United States, Canada and Mexico are likely to meet next year to discuss a joint bid for the 2026 World Cup, CONCACAF President Victor Montagliani said on Wednesday.

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Gascoigne taken in hospital after hotel row

LONDON (Reuters) - The former England footballer Paul Gascoigne was involved in a fracas in a London hotel, several witnesses said, and taken to hospital after sustaining a head injury.

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McIlroy must strive harder to be the greatest - Nicklaus

(Reuters) - World number two Rory McIlroy has the talent but he must work harder to dominate golf, 18-times major title winner Jack Nicklaus has said.

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Bogut called for flagrant foul on Harden as tempers flare

(The Sports Xchange) - Tempers flared between the Houston Rockets and Dallas on Tuesday, with the Mavericks' Australian center Andrew Bogut among those involved in the thick of the action.

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Blue Jackets beat Bruins, stretch win streak to 13 games

(The Sports Xchange) - The Columbus Blue Jackets squandered a three-goal lead but recovered to win their 13th game in a row, a 4-3 home result over the Boston Bruins on Tuesday.

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Dak and Dez fire as Dallas deny Detroit

ARLINGTON, Texas (The Sports Xchange) - The Dallas Cowboys entered their final regular-season home game with the NFC East title and home-field advantage in the playoffs in their back pocket.

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Right-hander Nova inks three-year deal with Pirates

(Reuters) - The Pittsburgh Pirates have bolstered their 2017 prospects by signing starting pitcher Ivan Nova to a new three-year deal, the Major League Baseball team announced on Tuesday.

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Bills fire Ryan, name Lynn interim head coach

(The Sports Xchange) - The Buffalo Bills announced on Tuesday that coach Rex Ryan and defensive coordinator Rob Ryan have been fired.

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Lions still in hunt for post-season ticket

(Reuters) - Despite losing a second straight game on Monday the Detroit Lions still have a chance to punch their post-season ticket as NFL teams scramble for playoff positioning heading into the final game of the regular season.

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Pistons stun Cavs to ease out of slump

AUBURN HILLS, Michigan (The Sports Xchange) - Desperate for a victory, the Detroit Pistons needed to catch a break. Cleveland Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue delivered that gift a day after Christmas, resting the game's biggest star.

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Seattle's Lockett needed lengthy surgery on broken leg

(Reuters) - Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Tyler Lockett needed lengthy surgery after suffering a badly broken leg on Saturday, said head coach Peter Carroll.

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Playoff-bound Chiefs end Broncos' postseason hopes

(The Sports Xchange) - The Kansas City Chiefs wrapped up a spot in the playoffs on Sunday with a 33-10 victory over the Denver Broncos at a rain-soaked and windy Arrowhead Stadium.

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Irving's jumper lifts Cavs over Warriors 109-108

(The Sports Xchange) - As Kyrie Irving waded through a sea of reporters and made his way to his locker on Sunday, teammate LeBron James saw him coming and shook his head.

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Steelers beat Ravens with last-gasp touchdown, win AFC North

(The Sports Xchange) - Ben Roethlisberger threw a 4-yard touchdown pass to Antonio Brown with nine seconds remaining to finish off a frantic 21-point Pittsburgh fourth quarter and the Steelers rallied to beat the Baltimore Ravens 31-27 on Sunday and win the AFC North.

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Ajayi joins elite list as Dolphins beat Bills in overtime

(The Sports Xchange) - Jay Ajayi jump-started the Miami Dolphins' sputtering season two months ago and continues to be the engine driving the team's playoff push.

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Del Potro to miss Australian Open over injury concerns

(Reuters) - Argentina's Juan Martin del Potro will miss next month's Australian Open and possibly his country's Davis Cup first round tie against Italy because of injury concerns.

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Tennessee quarterback Mariota suffers broken leg

(The Sports Xchange) - Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota sustained a fractured right fibula during Saturday's 38-17 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars and will miss the remainder of the season.

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Lampard to stay in close contact with Chelsea

LONDON (Reuters) - Former England midfielder Frank Lampard says he will be "in close contact" with his old club Chelsea as he decides on his next career move.

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Warriors find their way past Pistons

(The Sports Xchange) - Kevin Durant fired in 32 points and the Golden State Warriors overcame a season-high 22 turnovers to down the Detroit Pistons 119-113 on Friday.

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Chargers prepare for potential move to Los Angeles

(Reuters) - The San Diego Chargers have made preparations for a potential move to Los Angeles, leasing a portion of an Orange County office facility and working to secure nearby land for practice fields, the NFL said on its website on Friday.

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IOC investigates 28 Russian athletes over Sochi samples

ZURICH (Reuters) - Twenty-eight Russian athletes who took part in the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi face disciplinary proceedings over possible manipulation of their urine samples, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Friday.

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Players approve new collective bargaining agreement

(Reuters) - Players in the National Basketball Association approved their new seven-year collective bargaining agreement on Friday.

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American Keys to miss Australian Open after wrist surgery

(Reuters) - World number eight Madison Keys will miss next month's Australian Open after undergoing wrist surgery, the American said on Friday.

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Federer expects injury layoff to prolong playing career

MUMBAI (Reuters) - Roger Federer believes his six-month absence due to a knee injury could help prolong his playing career, with the 17-times grand slam winner saying he has enjoyed the break.

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Clippers battle past Spurs despite Paul injury

(The Sports Xchange) - Despite losing Chris Paul to a hamstring injury, the Los Angeles Clippers beat the San Antonio Spurs 106-101 at Staples Center on Thursday.

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Westbrook pours in 42 points to lead Thunder past Pelicans

(The Sports Xchange) - Russell Westbrook scored a team-high 42 points, including 11 consecutive in the final five minutes, and reserve guard Alex Abrines scored 18 points to lift the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 121-110 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday at the Smoothie King Center.

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Eagles take early flight to soar over sloppy Giants

(The Sports Xchange) - The Philadelphia Eagles took an early lead, then held on to defeat the Giants 24-19 at Lincoln Financial Field on Thursday, a victory that prevented New York from clinching a first playoff berth since 2011.

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Doping: Russia loses World Cup biathlon, speed skating events

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia has lost two World Cup sporting events it was due to host amid a growing concern at the extent of the country's doping program, highlighted in the McLaren report.

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Kvitova out for six months after surgery

PRAGUE (Reuters) - Two-time Wimbledon tennis champion Petra Kvitova, whose hand was wounded in a knife attack, will not play again for at least six months and it is too early to say when she can return to competition, her publicist said on Wednesday.

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Cavs guard Smith faces surgery for fractured riight thumb

(The Sports Xchange) - Cleveland Cavaliers starting guard J.R. Smith will undergo surgery to repair a fractured right thumb suffered during Tuesday's overtime win over the Milwaukee Bucks, the team announced on Wednesday.

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Basketball: From humble beginnings, hoops celebrates 125th birthday

(Reuters) - A game drawn up to occupy some bored boys as winter approached at a Massachusetts gymnasium celebrates its 125th anniversary on Wednesday and basketball's status as the world's second most popular sport.

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Record A$50 million prize purse for 2017 Australian Open

(Reuters) - The Australian Open has increased its total prize purse by 14 percent to a record A$50 million ($36.19 million), with A$3.7 million up for grabs for the winners of the singles tournaments, organizers said on Wednesday.

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Tokyo organizers unveil revised budget for 2020 Games

TOKYO (Reuters) - Tokyo Olympic organizers unveiled a budget of 1.6 to 1.8 trillion yen ($15-$16.8 billion) for the 2020 Summer Games on Wednesday, down from a last month's proposal of as much as 2 trillion yen after they came under pressure to cut costs.

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Raiders' resurgence reflected in AFC Pro Bowl roster

(Reuters) - The Oakland Raiders have been recognized for their superb season with an NFL-best seven players named to next month's Pro Bowl when the league announced the rosters on Tuesday.

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Jagr ties Messier as second highest NHL points scorer

(Reuters) - Jaromir Jagr moved into a tie for second place on the NHL's all-time points list on Tuesday, the Czech winger grabbing three assists for the Florida Panthers in a 4-3 shootout victory over the Buffalo Sabres.

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Kvitova undergoes hand surgery following knife attack, full recovery expected

PRAGUE (Reuters) - Two-time Wimbledon tennis champion Petra Kvitova underwent nearly four hours of surgery on her playing hand on Tuesday after she was stabbed by a knife-wielding intruder in her home in the Czech Republic.

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League punishes Giants for communications violations

(Reuters) - The National Football League has fined the New York Giants $150,000 and their coach Ben McAdoo $50,000 for breaking the rules by using a walkie-talkie during their Week 14 win over the Dallas Cowboys, the NFL Network reported.

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Del Potro unlikely to be fit for Australian Open

BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - Juan Martin del Potro is unlikely to be fit enough to play in next month's Australian Open, the Argentine told a news conference on Tuesday.

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Cycling: Team Sky confident UKAD will find no wrongdoing

LONDON (Reuters) - Team Sky are co-operating fully with a UK Anti-Doping investigation into a package sent to Bradley Wiggins at the end of the 2011 Dauphine race and are "confident" no wrongdoing will be found, they said on Tuesday.

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Tennis: Queen Elizabeth stands down as All England Club patron

LONDON (Reuters) - Queen Elizabeth has relinquished her role as patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), home of the Wimbledon championships, after 64 years and will be replaced by The Duchess of Cambridge, a statement from the club said on Tuesday.

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Players, media added to All-Star Game voting process

(Reuters) - The voting process for the National Basketball Association's All-Star Game has been expanded to include current players and members of the media, the NBA announced on Monday.

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Newton-led Panthers roll past Redskins

(The Sports Xchange) - Cam Newton passed for 300 yards and two touchdowns, Jonathan Stewart rushed for 132 yards and the Carolina Panthers defeated the Washington Redskins 26-15 Monday night at FedEx Field.

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Tiger's return excites players and fans

LONDON (Reuters) - Tiger Woods appeared in only one tournament all season but the year ended with the name of the 14-times major champion on the lips of most golf followers around the world.

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F1 faces more change after Rosberg exit

LONDON (Reuters) - Formula One goes into the New Year braced for change on and off the track, even if Lewis Hamilton will again start as top dog at Mercedes and firm favorite to take his fourth world championship.

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Murray and Kerber seize power and eye domination

LONDON (Reuters) - Audacious coups by Andy Murray and Angelique Kerber have transformed the tennis landscape and they will begin 2017 eyeing the kind of domination that few would have thought possible at the start of a seismic year.

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Marrone made interim head coach of Jaguars replacing Bradley

(Reuters) - Doug Marrone was named interim head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday following Sunday's firing of Gus Bradley.

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Athletics: Farah has marathon in his sights

DUBAI (Reuters) - Mo Farah has unfinished business with the marathon but accepts it will take time to master the distance when he steps away from the track after next season's world championships.

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Patriots beat Broncos, clinch NFL-record eighth division title

(The Sports Xchange) - Quarterback Tom Brady led four scoring drives -- two after turnovers -- and New England's defense kept the Denver Broncos out of the end zone Sunday in a 16-3 victory that clinched the Patriots' eighth straight AFC East title and the playoff berth that goes with it.

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Aldridge leads Spurs past Pelicans

(The Sports Xchange) - LaMarcus Aldridge scored 22 points in 26 minutes of play and Manu Ginobili added a season-high 17 points off the bench as the San Antonio Spurs manhandled the New Orleans Pelicans 113-100 on Sunday at the AT&T Center, winning their fourth straight game.

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Jaguars fire head coach Bradley after ninth straight loss

(The Sports Xchange) - The Jacksonville Jaguars fired head coach Gus Bradley in the aftermath of their 21-20 road loss to the Houston Texans on Sunday.

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Murray wins record third BBC sports award

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's world number one men's tennis player Andy Murray won a record third BBC Sports Personality of the Year award on Sunday after claiming his second Wimbledon title and first ATP World Tour crown in a stellar 2016 season.

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Fifty-one-year-old Hopkins bows out with knockout loss

(Reuters) - Former world champion Bernard Hopkins' long and illustrious career ended in a brutal defeat when the 51-year-old light heavyweight was knocked out of the ring in the eighth round of his final fight in Los Angeles on Saturday.

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Real Madrid survive scare to win club cup with Ronaldo hat-trick

TOKYO (Reuters) - Real Madrid suffered an almighty fright before a Cristiano Ronaldo hat-trick hauled them back from 2-1 down and gave them a 4-2 win over rank outsiders Kashima Antlers in the Club World Cup final on Sunday.

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Dolphins stay in playoff hunt with 34-13 rout of Jets

(The Sports Xchange) - Matt Moore, making his first start in almost five years, threw a career-high four touchdown passes Saturday night as the Miami Dolphins ensured they would keep pace in the AFC wild-card race with a 34-13 rout of the New York Jets in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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WBC title fight called off after Povetkin fails drug test

EKATERINBURG, Russia (Reuters) - A super heavyweight title fight between Russian boxer Alexander Povetkin and Haitian-born Canadian Bermane Stiverne that was scheduled for Saturday has been canceled after Povetkin failed a drug test.

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Big Three return but Cavaliers given fright by lowly Lakers

(The Sports Xchange) - LeBron James' rested legs were strong enough in the fourth quarter to carry the Cleveland Cavaliers over the pesky Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday.

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University of Minnesota football team cancels boycott over sex assault suspensions

(Reuters) - The University of Minnesota football team on Saturday said it would not boycott its upcoming bowl game this month to protest the suspension of 10 players in connection with a sexual assault investigation.

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Carlos Moya joins Nadal's coaching team

(Reuters) - Fourteen-times grand slam champion Rafa Nadal has turned to fellow Mallorcan Carlos Moya in an attempt to revitalize his career, the 30-year-old Spaniard said on Saturday.

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Seat swap may have saved Chapecoense player's life in plane crash

CHAPECO, Brazil (Reuters) - A Brazilian footballer who survived the air crash that killed most of his team in Colombia last month changed seats at the last minute after a team mate encouraged him to sit beside him, he said on Saturday.

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Warriors defeat Knicks with teamwork

(The Sports Xchange) - The Golden State Warriors passed circles around the New York Knicks on Thursday night, assisting on their first 36 baskets over 35 minutes in a 103-90 victory over the undermanned Eastern Conference squad.

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Messier ready for Jagr to take over second on all-time list

(Reuters) - Mark Messier gave no quarter during his Hall of Fame National Hockey League career, but he said on Thursday that he is ready to happily surrender second place on the all-time scoring list to Jaromir Jagr.

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Pitcher Chapman chides World Series-winning manager

(The Sports Xchange) - Aroldis Chapman, who is headed back to New York as the Yankees' closer, says Chicago manager Joe Maddon misused him in the World Series on the way to the Cubs winning the championship for the first time since 1908.

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Exclusive: Televisa affiliate surfaces in widening FIFA bribery probe

NEW YORK (Reuters) - An unnamed company described in a sweeping probe of corruption in soccer's world governing body FIFA matches the description of a close affiliate of Grupo Televisa , the largest broadcaster in Latin America, according to a Reuters review of U.S. and Swiss government documents.

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Bennett hurts neck to further deplete Seahawks defense

(Reuters) - Seattle Seahawks defensive end Michael Bennett exited Thursday's game against the Los Angeles Rams during the fourth quarter because of a neck injury, coach Pete Carroll said.

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Seahawks clinch NFC West as Rams fall again

(The Sports Xchange) - The Los Angeles Rams may have changed head coaches, but Thursday night's result was all too familiar.

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IOC, USOC and NBC join forces on U.S. sports channel

(Reuters) - The International Olympic Committee, United States Olympic Committee and NBC Universal have joined forces to bring year-round Games programming to the United States.

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Colorful U.S. sports broadcaster Craig Sager dies at 65

(Reuters) - Dapper U.S. television sports broadcaster Craig Sager, who donned flamboyant outfits as he interviewed coaches and players during decades as an NBA sideline reporter and resolutely worked even as he underwent treatment for leukemia, has died at age 65, Turner Sports said on Thursday.

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Renault F1 expect 'good step forward' in 2017

LONDON (Reuters) - Renault expect to make "a good step forward" in Formula One next season after building up staff numbers and investing in new equipment and facilities this year, team bosses said on Thursday.

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Mercedes to wait until 2017 on Rosberg replacement

LONDON (Reuters) - Mercedes will wait until the New Year before making any announcement on a replacement for retired Formula One world champion Nico Rosberg, with Finland's Valtteri Bottas still the favorite.

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Ball change for Woods in ongoing equipment switch

(Reuters) - It has been all change on the equipment front for Tiger Woods on his return to competition after an absence of almost 16 months and on Thursday Bridgestone Golf announced that he has signed a multi-year agreement for exclusive use of its golf ball.

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Japanese closer Uehara signs with Chicago Cubs

(Reuters) - Veteran Japanese closer Koji Uehara has signed with the reigning World Series champion Chicago Cubs, the Major League Baseball team said on Wednesday.

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Defense lifts Warriors to 113-109 road win over Pelicans

(The Sports Xchange) - For all the glamor associated with their relentless run-and-gun offense, the Golden State Warriors pride themselves occasionally on playing something called defense.

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Charity says over 1,700 calls made to UK soccer abuse helpline

LONDON (Reuters) - A hotline set up for former players to report child sex abuse they had suffered at British soccer clubs dating back to the 1970s has received more than 1,700 calls since it was set up three weeks ago, the charity responsible said on Thursday.

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Oakland, in bid to keep Raiders from Las Vegas, moves forward on new stadium talks

(Reuters) - Officials in Oakland, in a bid to keep their National Football League team the Raiders from moving to Las Vegas, have voted to work with a group seeking to build a $1.3 billion stadium, according to local media.

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Cavaliers rest 'Big Three' for Memphis trip

(Reuters) - Cleveland's "Big Three" of LeBron James, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love are going to be rested for Wednesday's road game against the Memphis Grizzlies, the NBA champions have announced.

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USOC discuss Plan B if NHL takes pass on 2018 Games

(Reuters) - The United States Olympic Committee said on Tuesday it has discussed a Plan B with USA Hockey should the National Hockey League decide not to send players to the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Games.

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Cheerleading boasts increasing international appeal

ORLANDO, Florida (Reuters) - Cheerleading, which received provisional recognition as an Olympic sport last week, is an increasingly international activity by no means restricted to its North American birthplace, according to the man who has driven its growth over four decades.

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Murray, Kerber named ITF players of the year

LONDON (Reuters) - Briton Andy Murray and Germany's Angelique Kerber were named ITF World Champions on Tuesday, capping stellar years for the men's and women's world number ones.

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Supreme Court ends fight over $1 billion NFL concussion deal

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday cleared the way for the National Football League's estimated $1 billion settlement of concussion-related lawsuits with thousands of retired players to take effect, rejecting a challenge brought by a small group of dissenters.

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Relief for Dodgers as prized closer Jansen agrees deal

(Reuters) - Los Angeles have held on to prized closer Kenley Jansen after the pitcher and the Dodgers agreed terms on a five-year deal worth $80 million, the Los Angeles Times reported on Monday.

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Brady comes through after Pats almost blow 20-point lead

(The Sports Xchange) - After the Patriots blew most of a 20-point lead with two special teams flubs, Tom Brady hit a wide-open Chris Hogan with a 79-yard touchdown bomb with 6:18 remaining as New England escaped with a 30-23 victory over the Baltimore Ravens on Monday.

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Olympics-Ex-IOC executive Hickey posts bail, free to leave Brazil

RIO DE JANEIRO (Reuters) - Irishman Pat Hickey is to be given his passport back and will leave Brazil as soon as possible, his lawyers said on Monday after he posted bail in his alleged ticket-scalping case.

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Struggling Rams fire head coach Fisher

(Reuters) - The struggling Los Angeles Rams have fired head coach Jeff Fisher after losing eight of their last nine games in what has become a disappointing homecoming season, the National Football League team said on Monday.

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Stenson lands Writers' Trophy for second time

LONDON (Reuters) - Henrik Stenson, who overcame American Phil Mickelson in a thrilling final-round duel to triumph in the British Open at Royal Troon in July, has won the Golf Writers' Trophy for the second time in his career.

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Isinbayeva urges IAAF to reach compromise on Russia ban

(Reuters) - The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) must reinstate Russia as soon as possible to prevent the country's athletes from stagnating, Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) chair Yelena Isinbayeva has said.

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Steelers' Bell sets franchise record for rushing yards

(The Sports Xchange) - Le'Veon Bell long ago got accustomed to playing in wintry weather.

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Super Bowl champion Broncos in danger of missing playoffs

(The Sports Xchange) - Given a chance to inject themselves back into the AFC West race, the Denver Broncos instead played themselves into real trouble on Sunday.

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Sounders beat Toronto FC on penalties to win MLS Cup

TORONTO (Reuters) - The Seattle Sounders claimed their first Major League Soccer Cup by beating Toronto FC 5-4 on penalties after their title game ended 0-0 after extra-time on Saturday.

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Louisville QB Jackson is youngest Heisman winner

(Reuters) - University of Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson became the youngest recipient of the Heisman Trophy as the most outstanding U.S. college football player on Saturday.

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Russian doping conspiracy benefited over 1,000 competitors

LONDON (Reuters) - More than 1,000 Russian competitors across more than 30 sports were involved in an institutional conspiracy to conceal positive drug tests as Moscow "hijacked international sport" over the course of five years, an independent WADA report said on Friday.

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Joshua to fight Klitschko in April after easy defence

LONDON (Reuters) - Britain's Anthony Joshua set up an April showdown with veteran heavyweight Wladimir Klitschko on Saturday after retaining his IBF world title with a clinical third round stoppage of outclassed American Eric Molina in Manchester.

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Joshua retains IBF heavyweight title in Manchester

(Reuters) - Britain's Anthony Joshua retained his IBF world heavyweight boxing title and continued his perfect run with a clinical third round stoppage of American Eric Molina in Manchester on Saturday.

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Kuechly remains in concussion protocol, out for Sunday

(Reuters) - Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly, a three-time Pro Bowl selection, has not cleared the NFL's concussion protocol and has been ruled out of Sunday's game against the San Diego Chargers, the team said on Saturday.

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Swimming-China's Chen banned for two years for doping at Rio

BEIJING (Reuters) - Chinese swimmer Chen Xinyi has been banned for two years after failing a drug test at the Rio Olympics, the sport's governing body (FINA) said.

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Cool champion Joshua confident of extending hot streak

MANCHESTER (Reuters) - IBF world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua said patience would be the key to preserving his perfect knockout run after weighing in almost a stone heavier than American challenger Eric Molina on Friday.

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NFL expands London push to four games in 2017

(Reuters) - The National Football League (NFL) will stage four games in London next season as part of is growing commitment to what it calls an increasing fan base in the British capital.

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I am not a traitor, says Russian doping whistleblower Stepanova

(Reuters) - Whistleblower Yulia Stepanova has denied being a traitor and said being banned for two years was the turning-point that led her to expose Russia's state-backed and systematic doping program.

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Chiefs KO Raiders, seize control of AFC West

(The Sports Xchange) - The Kansas City Chiefs took control of the AFC West with a 21-13 victory over the Oakland Raiders on Thursday in chilly weather conditions,

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Russia's $30 million center for acrobatic rock'n'roll, sport of Putin's daughter

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russia is building a $30 million complex for acrobatic rock'n'roll, a niche sport in which President Vladimir Putin's daughter is a leading dancer and has a senior role for development, a Reuters review of public documents has shown.

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WWE's China hopes rest on Bin Wang's big shoulders

ORLANDO, Fla. (Reuters) - Three mornings a week, 22-year-old Bin Wang, a native of China's Anhui province, enters a beige, low-rise building tucked into an office park in Orlando, Florida, to spend hours body-slamming people.

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Cardinals set to sign Fowler: MLB

(Reuters) - The St. Louis Cardinals have agreed to a free agent deal to sign former Chicago Cubs center fielder Dexter Fowler, Major League Baseball reported on its website.

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Toronto, Seattle hope drought ends with sip from MLS Cup

TORONTO (Reuters) - Either Toronto FC or Seattle Sounders, both hailed as model franchises when they entered the league, will finally deliver on the success predicted for them when Major League Soccer crowns a new champion on Saturday.

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Disrespectful Infantino won't answer my calls: Blatter

LONDON (Reuters) - Disgraced former FIFA president Sepp Blatter says successor Gianni Infantino has showed him no respect by failing to return his phone calls.

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Doping: CAS strips Romanian lifter, Russian boxer of Rio medals

BERNE (Reuters) - Romanian weightlifter Gabriel Sincraian and Russian boxer Misha Aloian have been stripped of their 2016 Olympic medals after failing doping tests at the Games, the Court of Arbitration for Sport said on Thursday.

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Doping: Athletes braced for bombshell from McLaren report

(Reuters) - Frustrated athletes will be watching Friday's release of the McLaren report into doping in Russia and are ready to take action if their voices are not heard, said United States Anti-Doping Agency head Travis Tygart.

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NFL player's New Jersey home vandalized with racist taunts: police

NEW YORK (Reuters) - An National Football League player's northern New Jersey home was vandalized with a swastika and other racist taunts scrawled on the inside walls during a break-in this week, according to police and photos that the player posted online.

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Golf: Moving ball rule changed in wake of Johnson controversy

LONDON (Reuters) - Golf's governing bodies have introduced a new local rule to eliminate the penalty when a ball is accidentally moved on the green, the scenario that overshadowed Dustin Johnson's maiden major victory at this year's U.S. Open.

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Doping: Olympic re-tests keep Russia in the crosshairs

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (Reuters) - Positive re-tests of doping samples from the 2008 and 2012 Olympics have left IOC President Thomas Bach with real concerns about Russia, as well as the sport of weightlifting, he said on Thursday.

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Motor racing: Mercedes runs job ad for F1 driver with 'proven track record'

LONDON (Reuters) - Mercedes posted a tongue-in-cheek job advertisement on Thursday as they seek a replacement for newly-retired Formula One world champion Nico Rosberg.

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FIFA's Infantino urges zero tolerance for child abuse

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - FIFA President Gianni Infantino has called for "zero tolerance" of child abuse in football and promised to look into ways the global governing body can do more to prevent it in the wake of the scandal sweeping the game in England.

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Yankees agree deal with Chapman: MLB

(Reuters) - The New York Yankees have reached an agreement for the return of hard-throwing closer Aroldis Chapman, Major League Baseball reported on its website on Wednesday.

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U.S. women set new 4x50m medley record

(Reuters) - The United States 4x50 meters medley relay team swam to a world record on Wednesday during the second day of the FINA Short Course World Swimming Championships in Winsor, Ontario.

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Tiger's next chapter a hot topic for players and fans

(Reuters) - With the opening PGA Tour event of 2017 just a month away, golf fans and players are bracing for the next chapter from Tiger Woods as the former world number one prepares for his first start on the U.S. circuit since August 2015.

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Beijing, London Games positive re-tests rise, more expected

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (Reuters) - Re-tests of doping samples from the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Olympics have found another three positive tests to take the tally to 101 and more are expected, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Wednesday.

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IOC approves venues for new sports at Tokyo 2020

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (Reuters) - Venues for the five new sports to be introduced at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics were finalised on Tuesday following approval by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Tokyo Games chief Yoshiro Mori told reporters.

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Diamond League gets championship-style makeover

(Reuters) - The Diamond League will have two end-of-season finals with a prize pool of $3.2 million following changes to the structure of the competition announced by the International Association of Athletics' Federations (IAAF) on Wednesday.

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IOC extends provisional measures against Russia

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (Reuters) - The International Olympic Committee (IOC) on Wednesday said it had extended provisional measures against Russia over its doping scandal "until further notice" pending the evaluation of a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA)-commissioned report.

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Ethics Board extends IAAF officials' suspension

LONDON (Reuters) - Three senior athletics officials have had their provisional suspension from the sport extended by the IAAF's Ethics Board as it continues its investigation into their alleged involvement in a suspected cover-up of Russian doping cases.

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NHL to move headquarters to New York's far West Side

NEW YORK (Reuters) - The National Hockey League will relocate its headquarters and a retail showroom to a new development on Manhattan's far West Side, putting it just a block away from a major hockey venue, Madison Square Garden, the site developer said on Wednesday.

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Tiger must prove he is over chipping yips: Jacklin

LONDON (Reuters) - Former world number one Tiger Woods must prove he has overcome the "chipping yips" in order to fully challenge golf's elite again, according to double major champion Tony Jacklin.

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Tomic happy to put 2016 controversies behind him

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Bernard Tomic has no qualms wiping his hands of a year he would rather forget and, with a reduced schedule next year, is keen to make a fresh start when he opens his season in Brisbane.

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Red Sox 'go for it' with trade for lefty ace Sale

(Reuters) - The Boston Red Sox dramatically retooled to build anew after winning the World Series in 2013, but on Tuesday they revised the blueprint again to go all-in for another title chase.

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New York City forward Villa named league MVP

NEW YORK (Reuters) - New York City forward David Villa was named Major League Soccer's most valuable player on Tuesday after leading the club to its first playoff appearance in just its second year in the league.

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New York FC's Villa earns MLS MVP honors

(The Sports Xchange) - New York City FC standout David Villa was named Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player on Tuesday after scoring 23 goals this season.

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Thompson first player to post 60 points in under 30 minutes

(The Sports Xchange) - Klay Thompson remembers the night Kobe Bryant scored 81 points against the Toronto Raptors on Jan. 22, 2006.

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Suspect charged in Louisiana shooting death of ex-NFL player McKnight

(Reuters) - A man suspected of fatally shooting former National Football League player Joe McKnight last week in a possible road rage case near New Orleans has been arrested and charged with manslaughter, local media reported on Tuesday.

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Yankees land Holliday on one-year-deal

(Reuters) - The New York Yankees have landed free agent Matt Holliday, agreeing to terms with the power-hitting outfielder on Sunday, according to a report on Major League Baseball's website. The contract will be a one-year deal with $13 million.

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No luck needed as Colts down Jets 41-10

(The Sports Xchange) - Quarterback Andrew Luck and tight end Dwayne Allen connected on three first-half touchdown passes on Monday night as the Indianapolis Colts routed the New York Jets 41-10.

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Former FIFA president Blatter loses appeal against ban

LAUSANNE, Switzerland (Reuters) - Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has lost his appeal against a six-year ban for ethics violations, imposed amid the biggest corruption scandal to shake the world soccer body, the Court of Arbitration for Sport said on Monday.

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Panthers' Newton benched for first series due to dress code violation

(Reuters) - Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton was benched for the start of his team’s 40-7 loss to the Seattle Seahawks due to a dress-code violation, NBC reported on Sunday.

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Seahawks safety Thomas breaks leg, considers retirement

(Reuters) - Seattle Seahawks safety Earl Thomas fractured his lower left leg on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers and later said he was considering retiring from the NFL.

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NFL: Rams extend contract of head coach Fisher

(The Sports Xchange) - Despite being mired in another losing season, the Los Angeles Rams have handed head coach Jeff Fisher a contract extension.

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U.S. skeleton athletes seek boycott of Sochi championships

(Reuters) - U.S. skeleton athletes are considering boycotting the world championships in Sochi next year in protest at the Russian doping scandal and how it has been handled, the New York Times reported on Sunday.

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Warriors' Green slams NBA for flagrant foul call

(Reuters) - Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green slammed the NBA on Saturday for its officiating, two days after he was penalized for a flagrant foul that led to his team losing to the Houston Rockets.

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Colts' Luck set to return after clearing concussion protocol

(Reuters) - Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck has cleared the NFL's concussion protocol and is set to return on Monday against the New York Jets.

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American Varner shoots 65 to clinch Australian PGA title

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Big-hitting American Harold Varner III bagged nine birdies in a sizzling final round 65 to win the Australian PGA Championship by two strokes from overnight leader Andrew Dodt on the Gold Coast on Sunday.

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Patriots tight end Gronkowski out for season

(The Sports Xchange) - Tight end Rob Gronkowski's season is over after the New England Patriots placed him on injured reserve on Saturday one day after he underwent surgery in Los Angeles to repair a herniated disk in his back.

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Warriors coach: marijuana may be better option than painkillers

(The Sports Xchange) - Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr said he smoked marijuana to treat the pain as he recovered from two back operations and believes it may be a better option for professional athletes than some painkillers.

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Half F1 grid is after Rosberg's seat, says Lauda

LONDON (Reuters) - Mercedes have been approached by half the Formula One grid since world champion Nico Rosberg announced his retirement on Friday, according to the team's non-executive chairman Niki Lauda.

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IAAF overwhelmingly passes sweeping reforms

MONACO (Reuters) - A sweeping reform package that changes how the scandal-hit governing body of world athletics operates was overwhelmingly passed at a special Congress on Saturday.

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MLB changes World Series home-field format rules

(Reuters) - Home field advantage in the World Series will go to the pennant winner with the better record rather than the league that wins the All-Star Game, according to details of Major League Baseball's new labor agreement revealed on Friday.

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Bolt and Ayana win IAAF awards

MONACO (Reuters) - Jamaica's Usain Bolt and Ethiopian distance runner Almaz Ayana were crowned as the IAAF's athletes of the year on Friday.

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I could have won more if I'd got serious: Bolt

MONACO (Reuters) - Looking back at his astonishing career on the night he was named Athlete of the Year for the sixth time, Usain Bolt said his only real regret was not taking his sport more seriously at an earlier age.

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Rosberg stuns Formula One with retirement bombshell

LONDON (Reuters) - Nico Rosberg stunned Formula One on Friday with the shock announcement that he was retiring only days after achieving a lifetime ambition by winning his first world championship with Mercedes.

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Cowboys beat Vikings 17-15 for 11th straight win

(The Sports Xchange) - The Dallas Cowboys held on to beat the Vikings 17-15 on Thursday night after Minnesota quarterback Sam Bradford's pass sailed high out of the back of the end zone on a two-point attempt with 30 seconds left.

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Woods' swing 'ineffective', says ex PGA Tour winner Chamblee

(Reuters) - Tiger Woods might have earned plaudits from some with his return to competition at the Hero World Challenge on Thursday, but one former player was unimpressed with the 14-time major winner's swing.

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Tribunal to rule on Monday on ex-FIFA head Blatter's soccer ban

ZURICH (Reuters) - The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will rule on Monday on ex-FIFA head Sepp Blatter's six-year ban from soccer amid corruption allegations, the tribunal said on Friday.

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Russia athletics ban to run into 2017

MONACO (Reuters) - Russia's athletics ban will run into 2017 and may include the August world championships after a Task Force monitoring the nation's anti-doping programme refused on Thursday to put any dates on a "road map" for a return.

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National Olympic committees paid Irishman Hickey's bail

ZURICH (Reuters) - The umbrella body representing national Olympic committees paid Patrick Hickey's bail to allow him to return home after he was arrested in a probe into an illegal ticket-scalping ring during the Rio de Janeiro Games.

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Trump backs LA 2024 bid on call with IOC's Bach

(Reuters) - U.S. President-elect Donald Trump spoke with the head of the International Olympic Committee to express his support for Los Angeles' bid to host the 2024 Summer Olympics, the city's bid committee said on Thursday.

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Twitter signs Philippines ad deal for NBA livestream shows

(Reuters) - Twitter Inc has signed a major livestreaming deal with its first Asian partner, Globe Telecom Inc of the Philippines, for its two exclusive U.S. National Basketball Association shows, the companies said on Thursday.

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Bolivia suspends airline as Colombian crash probe points to lack of fuel

LA PAZ/MEDELLIN, Colombia (Reuters) - Bolivian authorities on Thursday suspended the license of a tiny charter airline whose plane crashed in Colombia this week after apparently running out of fuel, killing 71 people and wiping out a Brazilian soccer team on its way to a regional cup final.

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Woods makes positive start to comeback at Hero Challenge

(Reuters) - Tiger Woods made a positive start to his first competitive round in nearly 16 months when he parred his opening hole at the Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas on Thursday.

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ExxonMobil leaves McLaren for Red Bull F1 team

LONDON (Reuters) - McLaren have lost another long-term partner to Formula One rivals Red Bull with oil giant ExxonMobil following the example of Tag Heuer.

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Britain shocked by growing soccer child abuse scandal

LONDON (Reuters) - What began as a harrowing account of child abuse suffered by a former professional English soccer player last month has lifted the lid on what could be one of the worst pedophile scandals Britain has ever known.

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Toronto to play Seattle in MLS final after beating Impact

TORONTO (The Sports Xchange) - Benoit Cheyrou and Tosaint Ricketts scored in extra time as Toronto FC beat Montreal Impact 5-2 in the second leg of the Major League Soccer (MLS) Eastern Conference final on Wednesday, sealing a 7-5 aggregate victory.

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No shades but Woods 'ready' for long-awaited comeback

(Reuters) - Tiger Woods picked up a headache after forgetting his sunglasses in his final practice round on Wednesday but otherwise declared himself good to go as he prepared to bring an end to a 16-month absence from tournament golf.

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Award for Penn State whistleblower in Sandusky scandal rises to $12 million

(Reuters) - A Pennsylvania judge on Wednesday awarded $5 million to a former Penn State University assistant football coach who implicated Jerry Sandusky in the sexual assault of young boys, bringing to more than $12 million the amount owed to the former assistant.

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Swiss authorities carry out fresh house searches in FIFA case

ZURICH (Reuters) - Swiss authorities have searched more houses as part of their criminal investigation into suspected corruption in world soccer and have added former FIFA general secretary Urs Linsi to their list of suspects, they said on Wednesday.

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Rangers top list of most valuable franchises: Forbes

(Reuters) - The New York Rangers, valued at $1.25 billion, were ranked as the National Hockey League's most valuable franchise for the second consecutive year, according to Forbes' list released on Wednesday.

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Ex-NFL star Sharper sentenced to 20 years in prison in drug, rape cases

(Reuters) - Former National Football League star Darren Sharper was sentenced on Tuesday to 20 years in prison after admitting to drugging and raping two women in California, concluding a string of sexual abuse cases that spanned several states.

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Cespedes lands $110 million deal from Mets, reports

(The Sports Xchange) - After opting out of his contract with the New York Mets and walking away from $47 million guaranteed, Yoenis Cespedes will not change uniforms, agreeing to a four-year, $110 million contract to stay with the team on a record deal that includes a full no-trade clause.

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Ennis-Hill set to receive 2011 gold after Chernova stripped of world title

ZURICH (Reuters) - Russian heptathlete Tatyana Chernova was stripped of her 2011 world title on Tuesday for a doping violation, with Britain's Jessica Ennis-Hill set to be awarded the gold medal.

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Norwegians want 14-month ban for 2010 Olympic champ Johaug

OSLO (Reuters) - Anti-Doping Norway has recommended a 14-month suspension for cross-country skier Therese Johaug following the former Olympic relay champion's positive test for clostebol, a banned anabolic steroid.

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QB Rodgers keeps Green Bay playoff hopes alive

(The Sports Xchange) - Quarterback Aaron Rodgers threw two touchdown passes to wide receiver Davante Adams as the visiting Green Bay Packers beat the Philadelphia Eagles 27-13 in the Monday Night game.

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Plane carrying Brazil's Chapecoense soccer team crashes in Colombia, 76 dead

BOGOTA (Reuters) - Brazilian soccer team Chapecoense were on board a plane carrying 81 people that crashed in Colombia killing 76 people, police said on Tuesday.

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IOC calls on Tokyo to keep costs below $20 billion

TOKYO (Reuters) - The International Olympic Committee on Tuesday called on Tokyo to keep costs for the next Summer Olympics below $20 billion as the 2020 hosts grapple with ballooning expenses.

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CFL: Burris leads Redblacks to shock Grey Cup victory

TORONTO (Reuters) - Henry Burris threw three touchdowns, including one in overtime, and ran in two others as the Ottawa Redblacks stunned the Calgary Stampeders 39-33 to win the 104th Grey Cup in one of the biggest upsets in Canadian Football League history on Sunday.

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Woods 'not dead', says itching to return in Bahamas

(Reuters) - Tiger Woods is counting down the minutes to his competitive comeback at this week's Hero World Challenge in the Bahamas and says after a year on the sidelines he is even enjoying the pre-tournament nerves.

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Hamilton wins plaudits as Mercedes ponder punishment

ABU DHABI (Reuters) - For all the headlines screaming 'anarchy', Lewis Hamilton's public act of defiance against Mercedes in Formula One's title-deciding Abu Dhabi Grand Prix could ultimately make racing even more exciting in 2017.

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Germany has a new F1 champion but race in doubt

ABU DHABI (Reuters) - Germany has a new Formula One world champion in Nico Rosberg, after Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel, but fans may not see him race on home soil next season.

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Moss regains unwanted F1 record after Rosberg title

ABU DHABI (Reuters) - Nico Rosberg's first Formula One championship has had the side-effect of returning an unwanted accolade -- the most successful grand prix driver never to win the title -- to Britain's Stirling Moss.

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Payton makes it personal as Saints run it up against Rams

(The Sports Xchange) - New Orleans Saints coach Sean Payton would never admit it, but this was intensely personal.

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McGregor relinquishes featherweight belt: UFC

(Reuters) - UFC's first dual division champion Conor McGregor has relinquished his featherweight title with Jose Aldo replacing the Irishman as the category's undisputed champion, officials said on Saturday.

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Sounders beat Rapids to reach their first MLS Cup final

(The Sports Xchange) - Jordan Morris scored in the 56th minute on a pass from Nelson Haedo Valdez as the visiting Seattle Sounders beat the Colorado Rapids 1-0 on Sunday to advance to their first MLS Cup final.

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Hamilton hands over title as a winner

ABU DHABI (Reuters) - The podium celebration was muted, and the smile looked forced, but Lewis Hamilton said he still felt great after winning a season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix that handed his title to Mercedes team mate Nico Rosberg.

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Del Potro beats Cilic to send Davis Cup final to the wire

ZAGREB (Reuters) - Argentina were level at 2-2 with hosts Croatia in an epic Davis Cup final after Juan Martin Del Potro came from two sets down to beat home favorite Marin Cilic 6-7(4) 2-6 7-5 6-4 6-3 in a fervent atmosphere on Sunday.

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Prescott, Cowboys top 'Skins for 10th straight win

(The Sports Xchange) - Despite picking up a 10th straight win Thursday against the Washington Redskins, the Dallas Cowboys did not force a turnover for the third straight game.

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Denmark seal maiden World Cup triumph in Melbourne

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Soren Kjeldsen and Thorbjorn Olesen shot a six-under-par 66 in the final round fourballs to give Denmark a first World Cup of Golf triumph by four strokes at Kingston Heath on Sunday.

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Dominant Danes extend World Cup lead in Melbourne

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Soren Kjeldsen and Thorbjorn Olesen remained on course to claim a first World Cup of Golf for Denmark after shooting a two-under-par 70 in Saturday's foursomes to extend their overnight lead to four strokes.

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Ilyin stripped of Beijing, London weightlifting golds

ZURICH (Reuters) - Kazak weightlifter Ilya Ilyin has been stripped of the gold medals he won at the Beijing and London Olympic Games after failing doping tests in re-analysis of samples, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Friday.

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Team Denmark roar to top of leaderboard at World Cup of Golf

MELBOURNE (Reuters) - Soren Kjeldsen and Thorbjorn Olesen tore up Kingston Heath with a scintillating 60 in the fourballs to fire Denmark to a three-stroke lead after the second round of the World Cup of Golf in Melbourne.

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Roethlisberger, Brown lead Steelers past Colts

(The Sports Xchange) - Ben Roethlisberger passed for 221 yards and three touchdowns - each to Antonio Brown - and the Pittsburgh Steelers recorded a 28-7 victory Thursday night against the Indianapolis Colts, whose starting quarterback Andrew Luck was out with a concussion.

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Lions beat Vikings on Prater's last-second field goal

DETROIT (The Sports Xchange) - Matt Prater's 40-yard field goal on the final play gave the Detroit Lions a 16-13 victory over the Minnesota Vikings and sole possession of first place in the NFC North on Thanksgiving Day at Ford Field.

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Mayor says Trump backs Los Angeles' 2024 Olympic Bid: NBC

(Reuters) - U.S. Republican President-elect Donald Trump told the Los Angeles' mayor he would support the city's 2024 Olympics bid when the two spoke this week, NBC reported on Thursday, citing the mayor's spokeswoman.

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Cavs' Love scores first-quarter record 34 points

(Reuters) - Cleveland forward Kevin Love scored a first-quarter record 34 points on Wednesday, helping the Cavaliers to a 137-125 win over Portland.

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MLB, players' union optimistic about new CBA

(The Sports Xchange) - With one week remaining before MLB's current collective bargaining agreement expires on Dec. 1, the league and players' union are optimistic about reaching a deal to avoid a lockout.

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WADA suspends Mexico laboratory for non-compliance

(Reuters) - Mexico's anti-doping laboratory has had its accreditation suspended for up to six months for failing to comply with international standards, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said in a statement on Thursday.

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Former Liverpool and England captain Gerrard retires

LONDON (Reuters) - Former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard announced his retirement on Thursday a week after confirming he would not be returning to play for MLS side LA Galaxy.

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WADA figures show slight rise in positive tests

(Reuters) - There was a slight rise in the number of positive tests carried out worldwide last year, World Anti-Doping Agency figures released on Wednesday showed.

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Arena returns as coach of U.S. national team

(Reuters) - Bruce Arena has been handed the tall order of getting the United States' qualifying campaign for the 2018 World Cup back on track after being named head coach of the national team, U.S. Soccer said on Tuesday.

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The road to the Formula One title

ABU DHABI (Reuters) - Germany's Nico Rosberg can win his first Formula One title in Abu Dhabi on Sunday while Lewis Hamilton remains in contention to become Britain's first four times world champion.

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Drogba bids farewell to Montreal after final home game

(Reuters) - Striker Didier Drogba has indicated he will not return to Montreal Impact next season, with the Major League Soccer club releasing a video on Twitter thanking him for his service.

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Singapore in the driving seat as it negotiates new F1 deal

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - After negotiating Singapore's current Formula One deal, Bernie Ecclestone said in 2012 the hardest thing was explaining to the authorities that "we don't race for free".

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Bucs' Adjei-Barimah banned four games for PED violation

(The Sports Xchange) - Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Jude Adjei-Barimah has been suspended for four games by the NFL for violating the league's policy on performance enhancing substances.

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NHL: New Las Vegas franchise revealed as 'Vegas Golden Knights'

(Reuters) - The name of the new NHL franchise and first major professional sports team based in the U.S. gambling capital of Las Vegas was revealed as the 'Vegas Golden Knights' in a glitzy, though glitch-marred, launch on Tuesday.

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McLaren to deliver report into Russian doping December 9 in London

(Reuters) - Canadian law professor Richard McLaren will deliver his final report into state-sponsored doping in Russian sport on Dec. 9 at a downtown London hotel, the World Anti-Doping Agency said on Tuesday.

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Carr, Raiders rally past Texans in Mexico City

(The Sports Exchange) - The dominant ways of the Houston Texans' defense vanished at the most inopportune moments on Monday night against the Oakland Raiders.

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Nishikori targets big tournaments after successful 2016

(Reuters) - Kei Nishikori has set his sights on making a grand slam breakthrough in 2017 after the Japanese world number five concluded a successful season in which he claimed one ATP Tour title, an Olympic medal and recorded a career-high 58 wins.

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McLaren need a title sponsor, says Brown

LONDON (Reuters) - McLaren need a title sponsor after years without one, the Formula One team's new executive director Zak Brown said on Tuesday.

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Guerrero, Ramirez, Rodriguez new Hall of Fame candidates

(Reuters) - Outfielders Vladimir Guerrero and Manny Ramirez and catcher Ivan Rodriguez are among the prominent newcomers to the National Baseball Hall of Fame ballot released on Monday.

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Klinsmann fired as head coach of U.S. men's team

(Reuters) - Juergen Klinsmann has been fired as head coach of the U.S. men's national team, U.S. Soccer said on Monday.

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Redskins blow past slumping Packers 42-24

(The Sports Xchange) - On a windy Sunday night in Maryland, Kirk Cousins and the Washington Redskins blew past the Green Bay Packers.

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Tokyo swimming pool won't have same problems as Rio, says FINA head

(Reuters) - The new aquatics center being built for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics will experience none of the problems faced by organizers of this year's Rio de Janeiro Games, the International swimming federation (FINA) president said on Monday.

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Johnson joins Petty, Earnhardt as 7-time NASCAR champ

(The Sports Xchange) - Jimmie Johnson won the Ford EcoBoost 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series season-finale on Sunday, claiming his seventh series championship, tying NASCAR Hall of Famers Richard Petty and Dale Earnhardt for the most all-time.

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Bizarre finish has Raptors crying foul after loss to Kings

(The Sports Xchange) - The Sacramento Kings beat the Raptors on Sunday in a controversial finish that left Toronto coach Dwayne Casey struggling to accept the outcome.

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Hull claims Tour Championship, Ariya wins million-dollar bonus

(Reuters) - Britain's Charley Hull won the LPGA season-ending CME Group Tour Championship with a two-shot swing at the 17th on Sunday, while Ariya Jutanugarn of Thailand clinched a million-dollar bonus and Player of the Year honors.

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Murray captures ATP World Tour Finals to secure year-end number one ranking

LONDON (Reuters) - After a season in which he had already reached dizzy heights, Andy Murray saved the best to last by outclassing Novak Djokovic 6-3 6-4 to claim his first ATP World Tour Finals title and secure the year-end top ranking on Sunday.

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Romo interested in playing for Broncos next season: report

(The Sports Xchange) - With rumors circulating that Tony Romo will have a new employer in 2017, the veteran quarterback is reportedly interested in playing for the Denver Broncos next season if the Dallas Cowboys decide to trade him.

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Spieth wins playoff for second Australian Open title

SYDNEY (Reuters) - World number five Jordan Spieth showed major-winning class when it mattered by draining a 12-foot birdie putt to claim the Australian Open title for the second time after a three-way sudden death playoff on Sunday.

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Klinsmann remains certain U.S. will qualify for Russia

BERLIN (Reuters) - United States coach Juergen Klinsmann remains "1,000 percent sure" his side will qualify for the 2018 World Cup despite a 4-0 rout at Costa Rica last week.

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Murray digs deep to down Raonic in thriller and reach London final

LONDON (Reuters) - World number one Andy Murray survived his second marathon of the week to beat Milos Raonic 5-7 7-6(5) 7-6(9) in a nerve-jangling semi-final thriller at the ATP World Tour Finals on Saturday.

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Panthers build big lead, hold off Saints

(The Sports Xchange) - The Panthers scored on a few short drives after first-half mistakes by the New Orleans Saints, and Carolina held on for a 23-20 victory Thursday night at Bank of America Stadium.

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Former Clippers owner Sterling settles lawsuit

(Reuters) - Former Los Angeles Clippers owner Donald Sterling has settled a lawsuit with the National Basketball Association and others, the Los Angeles Times reported on Friday.

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Ogilvy leads Spieth by two going into final round in Sydney

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Geoff Ogilvy stormed to the top of the Australian Open leaderboard with a stunning eight-under-par 64 on Saturday to take a two-shot lead over Jordan Spieth and two others going into the final round.

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Canadian Hughes holds two-shot lead at RSM Classic

(Reuters) - Canadian rookie Mackenzie Hughes followed his opening 61 with a five-under 67 to increase his advantage to two strokes at the halfway stage of the RSM Classic in St Simons Island, Georgia on Friday.

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Panthers linebacker Kuechly in concussion protocol

(Reuters) - Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly is in the NFL's concussion protocol following the emotional scenes that emerged in Thursday night's game at Bank of America Stadium.

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Mexican wrestling fans demand blood in extreme 'Lucha Libre'

NEZAHUALCOYOTL, Mexico (Reuters) - It is almost nine o'clock at night and fans are anxious in Mexico's Neza Arena, an old and dingy building in one of the most crime-ridden suburbs of Mexico City.

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Swede Stenson mixes it with Dubai crowd

DUBAI (Reuters) - Henrik Stenson had more crowd interaction than he would have liked on the second day of the DP World Tour Championship on Friday, as his three-under-par round included a wayward shot which hit a lady and a separate spectator picking up his ball.

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No Fukushima health concerns, says baseball-softball chief

TOKYO (Reuters) - There are no concerns about playing in Fukushima related to the prefecture's past nuclear accident and whether to hold Olympic games there will come down to the facilities and scheduling, the president of the World Baseball Softball Confederation said.

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Wimbledon extends BBC partnership until 2024

(Reuters) - Wimbledon will continue to be broadcast on BBC at least until 2024 following a four-year extension to the longest partnership in sports broadcasting history.

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Cubs slugger Bryant, Angels' Trout win MVP awards

(Reuters) - Kris Bryant of the World Series champion Chicago Cubs capped off a dream season by winning the National League MVP award, while Mike Trout backed up his case as baseball's best by claiming AL honors for a second time.

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Djokovic thrashes Goffin, picks row with umpire

LONDON (Reuters) - Defending champion Novak Djokovic trounced stand-in David Goffin 6-1 6-2 for a clean sweep of his group at the ATP World Tour Finals on Thursday but spiced up a leisurely afternoon workout by picking a row with the umpire.

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Cubs slugger Bryant, Angels' Trout win MVP awards

(Reuters) - Kris Bryant of the World Series champion Chicago Cubs capped off a dream season by winning the National League MVP award, while Mike Trout backed up his case as baseball's best by claiming AL honors for a second time.

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Lightning's Stamkos may miss 4-6 months after knee surgery

(The Sports Xchange) - Tampa Bay Lighting captain Steven Stamkos will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus, according to multiple reports.

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Djokovic thrashes Goffin, picks row with umpire

LONDON (Reuters) - Defending champion Novak Djokovic trounced stand-in David Goffin 6-1 6-2 for a clean sweep of his group at the ATP World Tour Finals on Thursday but spiced up a leisurely afternoon workout by picking a row with the umpire.

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Lightning's Stamkos may miss 4-6 months after knee surgery

(The Sports Xchange) - Tampa Bay Lighting captain Steven Stamkos will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus, according to multiple reports.

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Djokovic thrashes Goffin, picks row with umpire

LONDON (Reuters) - Defending champion Novak Djokovic trounced stand-in David Goffin 6-1 6-2 for a clean sweep of his group at the ATP World Tour Finals on Thursday but spiced up a leisurely afternoon workout by picking a row with the umpire.

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FIFA takes action against England, Scotland over poppies

LONDON (Reuters) - FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against England and Scotland after they wore poppies on black armbands in last week's World Cup qualifier.

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Lightning's Stamkos may miss 4-6 months after knee surgery

(The Sports Xchange) - Tampa Bay Lighting captain Steven Stamkos will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus, according to multiple reports.

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Raonic chases top three spot after win over Thiem

LONDON (Reuters) - Less than two weeks after pulling out of the Paris Masters semi-finals with a thigh injury, Milos Raonic reached the last four at the ATP World Tour Finals and is close to breaking into the top three of the rankings.

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Lightning's Stamkos may miss 4-6 months after knee surgery

(The Sports Xchange) - Tampa Bay Lighting captain Steven Stamkos will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus, according to multiple reports.

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Lightning's Stamkos may miss 4-6 months after knee surgery

(The Sports Xchange) - Tampa Bay Lighting captain Steven Stamkos will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus, according to multiple reports.

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Conflict of interest for NFL doctors to report to teams: Harvard study

BOSTON (Reuters) - The doctors who patrol the sidelines of NFL games to assess whether injured players can safely return to the field should report to the league and players' union rather than individual teams, said a Harvard University study released on Thursday.

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Lightning's Stamkos may miss 4-6 months after knee surgery

(The Sports Xchange) - Tampa Bay Lighting captain Steven Stamkos will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus, according to multiple reports.

Read more

Conflict of interest for NFL doctors to report to teams: Harvard study

BOSTON (Reuters) - The doctors who patrol the sidelines of NFL games to assess whether injured players can safely return to the field should report to the league and players' union rather than individual teams, said a Harvard University study released on Thursday.

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Lightning's Stamkos may miss 4-6 months after knee surgery

(The Sports Xchange) - Tampa Bay Lighting captain Steven Stamkos will undergo arthroscopic knee surgery to repair a torn lateral meniscus, according to multiple reports.

Read more

Conflict of interest for NFL doctors to report to teams: Harvard study

BOSTON (Reuters) - The doctors who patrol the sidelines of NFL games to assess whether injured players can safely return to the field should report to the league and players' union rather than individual teams, said a Harvard University study released on Thursday.

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Prickly Djokovic thrashes Goffin, picks row with umpire

LONDON (Reuters) - Defending champion Novak Djokovic trounced stand-in David Goffin 6-1 6-2 for a clean sweep of his group at the ATP World Tour Finals on Thursday but still looked far from happy as he picked a row with the chair umpire.

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Ainslie busting a gut in America’s Cup quest

PORTSMOUTH, England (Reuters) - Numbingly-cold salt water showers Ben Ainslie and his crew as they enter "flight" mode in a practice sail before defending their America's Cup World Series lead in Japan this weekend.

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NBA star LeBron James giving $2.5 million to Muhammad Ali exhibit

NEW YORK (Reuters) - LeBron James is donating $2.5 million to support a Muhammad Ali exhibit at the Smithsonian's new National Museum of African American History in Washington, D.C., the basketball star and the museum announced on Thursday.

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Ainslie busting a gut in America’s Cup quest

PORTSMOUTH, England (Reuters) - Numbingly-cold salt water showers Ben Ainslie and his crew as they enter "flight" mode in a practice sail before defending their America's Cup World Series lead in Japan this weekend.

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Big guns start slowly as Westwood leads in Dubai

(Reuters) - Rory McIlroy struggled to a 75 and the other contenders to top the European money-list also made slow starts in the season-ending DP World Tour Championship first round in Dubai on Thursday.

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Ainslie busting a gut in America’s Cup quest

PORTSMOUTH, England (Reuters) - Numbingly-cold salt water showers Ben Ainslie and his crew as they enter "flight" mode in a practice sail before defending their America's Cup World Series lead in Japan this weekend.

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Luck, Herbert lead as Spieth's putter stutters in Sydney

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Local amateur prospect Curtis Luck and compatriot Lucas Herbert shot five-under-par 67s for a share of the lead as Jordan Spieth struggled with his putting in the opening round of the Australian Open on Thursday.

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Ainslie busting a gut in America’s Cup quest

PORTSMOUTH, England (Reuters) - Numbingly-cold salt water showers Ben Ainslie and his crew as they enter "flight" mode in a practice sail before defending their America's Cup World Series lead in Japan this weekend.

Read more

Mixed Martial Arts: McGregor challenges Mayweather again

(Reuters) - Fresh off his latest triumph, UFC champion Conor McGregor continues to call out boxing champion Floyd Mayweather and attempt to lure him into a bout.

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Luck, Herbert lead as Spieth's putter stutters in Sydney

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Local amateur prospect Curtis Luck and compatriot Lucas Herbert shot five-under-par 67s for a share of the lead as Jordan Spieth struggled with his putting in the opening round of the Australian Open on Thursday.

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Mixed Martial Arts: McGregor challenges Mayweather again

(Reuters) - Fresh off his latest triumph, UFC champion Conor McGregor continues to call out boxing champion Floyd Mayweather and attempt to lure him into a bout.

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Luck, Herbert lead as Spieth's putter stutters in Sydney

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Local amateur prospect Curtis Luck and compatriot Lucas Herbert shot five-under-par 67s for a share of the lead as Jordan Spieth struggled with his putting in the opening round of the Australian Open on Thursday.

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Mixed Martial Arts: McGregor challenges Mayweather again

(Reuters) - Fresh off his latest triumph, UFC champion Conor McGregor continues to call out boxing champion Floyd Mayweather and attempt to lure him into a bout.

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Luck, Herbert lead as Spieth's putter stutters in Sydney

SYDNEY (Reuters) - Local amateur prospect Curtis Luck and compatriot Lucas Herbert shot five-under-par 67s for a share of the lead as Jordan Spieth struggled with his putting in the opening round of the Australian Open on Thursday.

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U.S. in soccer World Cup trouble after losing 4-0 to Costa Rica

(Reuters) - The United States face an uphill battle to qualify for their eighth consecutive World Cup Finals after being demolished 4-0 by a rampant Costa Rica in San Jose on Tuesday.

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Mixed Martial Arts: McGregor challenges Mayweather again

(Reuters) - Fresh off his latest triumph, UFC champion Conor McGregor continues to call out boxing champion Floyd Mayweather and attempt to lure him into a bout.

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Murray and Djokovic careering towards Sunday showdown

LONDON (Reuters) - Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic are careering towards a Sunday showdown to decide their year-long battle for supremacy.

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U.S. in soccer World Cup trouble after losing 4-0 to Costa Rica

(Reuters) - The United States face an uphill battle to qualify for their eighth consecutive World Cup Finals after being demolished 4-0 by a rampant Costa Rica in San Jose on Tuesday.

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Murray and Djokovic careering towards Sunday showdown

LONDON (Reuters) - Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic are careering towards a Sunday showdown to decide their year-long battle for supremacy.

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U.S. in soccer World Cup trouble after losing 4-0 to Costa Rica

(Reuters) - The United States face an uphill battle to qualify for their eighth consecutive World Cup Finals after being demolished 4-0 by a rampant Costa Rica in San Jose on Tuesday.

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Murray and Djokovic careering towards Sunday showdown

LONDON (Reuters) - Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic are careering towards a Sunday showdown to decide their year-long battle for supremacy.

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U.S. in soccer World Cup trouble after losing 4-0 to Costa Rica

(Reuters) - The United States face an uphill battle to qualify for their eighth consecutive World Cup Finals after being demolished 4-0 by a rampant Costa Rica in San Jose on Tuesday.

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NHL expresses willingness to take part in Olympics Games: report

(Reuters) - The NHL has expressed a willingness to take part in the 2018 Winter Olympics if the union representing its players agrees to extend the current labor deal, Canadian sports network TSN reported on Wednesday.

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Murray and Djokovic careering towards Sunday showdown

LONDON (Reuters) - Andy Murray and Novak Djokovic are careering towards a Sunday showdown to decide their year-long battle for supremacy.

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WADA's Reedie under fire from Olympic committees

DOHA (Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency and its head Craig Reedie faced stinging criticism from national Olympic committees on Wednesday for its handling of the Russian doping scandal, days before its board meeting where the Scot is up for re-election.

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Toronto-Montreal rivalry gets new look in MLS playoffs

(Reuters) - Toronto and Montreal, longtime foes on the ice, are fueling a rivalry on the soccer pitch as they prepare to battle for a berth in Major League Soccer's championship match.

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WADA's Reedie under fire from Olympic committees

DOHA (Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency and its head Craig Reedie faced stinging criticism from national Olympic committees on Wednesday for its handling of the Russian doping scandal, days before its board meeting where the Scot is up for re-election.

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Murray outlasts Nishikori in classic Tour Finals duel

LONDON (Reuters) - Andy Murray had to trawl deep into the bottom of his energy reserves to outlast Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-7(9) 6-4 6-4 in a monumental battle lasting more than three hours at the ATP World Tour Finals on Wednesday.

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WADA's Reedie under fire from Olympic committees

DOHA (Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency and its head Craig Reedie faced stinging criticism from national Olympic committees on Wednesday for its handling of the Russian doping scandal, days before its board meeting where the Scot is up for re-election.

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Murray outlasts Nishikori in classic Tour Finals duel

LONDON (Reuters) - Andy Murray had to trawl deep into the bottom of his energy reserves to outlast Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-7(9) 6-4 6-4 in a monumental battle lasting more than three hours at the ATP World Tour Finals on Wednesday.

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WADA's Reedie under fire from Olympic committees

DOHA (Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency and its head Craig Reedie faced stinging criticism from national Olympic committees on Wednesday for its handling of the Russian doping scandal, days before its board meeting where the Scot is up for re-election.

Read more

Murray outlasts Nishikori in classic Tour Finals duel

LONDON (Reuters) - Andy Murray had to trawl deep into the bottom of his energy reserves to outlast Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-7(9) 6-4 6-4 in a monumental battle lasting more than three hours at the ATP World Tour Finals on Wednesday.

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Cost for 2020 Games gymnastics venue more than double now

(Reuters) - The cost to build a temporary gymnastics arena for the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo has more than doubled with Shimzu Corp winning the $190 million (20.5 billion yen) contract, according to a report.

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WADA's Reedie under fire from Olympic committees

DOHA (Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency and its head Craig Reedie faced stinging criticism from national Olympic committees on Wednesday for its handling of the Russian doping scandal, days before its board meeting where the Scot is up for re-election.

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Cost for 2020 Games gymnastics venue more than double now

(Reuters) - The cost to build a temporary gymnastics arena for the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo has more than doubled with Shimzu Corp winning the $190 million (20.5 billion yen) contract, according to a report.

Read more

WADA's Reedie under fire from Olympic committees

DOHA (Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency and its head Craig Reedie faced stinging criticism from national Olympic committees on Wednesday for its handling of the Russian doping scandal, days before its board meeting where the Scot is up for re-election.

Read more

Cost for 2020 Games gymnastics venue more than double now

(Reuters) - The cost to build a temporary gymnastics arena for the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo has more than doubled with Shimzu Corp winning the $190 million (20.5 billion yen) contract, according to a report.

Read more

WADA's Reedie under fire from Olympic committees

DOHA (Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency and its head Craig Reedie faced stinging criticism from national Olympic committees on Wednesday for its handling of the Russian doping scandal, days before its board meeting where the Scot is up for re-election.

Read more

Cost for 2020 Games gymnastics venue more than double now

(Reuters) - The cost to build a temporary gymnastics arena for the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo has more than doubled with Shimzu Corp winning the $190 million (20.5 billion yen) contract, according to a report.

Read more

WADA's Reedie under fire from Olympic committees

DOHA (Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency and its head Craig Reedie faced stinging criticism from national Olympic committees on Wednesday for its handling of the Russian doping scandal, days before its board meeting where the Scot is up for re-election.

Read more

Cost for 2020 Games gymnastics venue more than double now

(Reuters) - The cost to build a temporary gymnastics arena for the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo has more than doubled with Shimzu Corp winning the $190 million (20.5 billion yen) contract, according to a report.

Read more

WADA's Reedie under fire from Olympic committees

DOHA (Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency and its head Craig Reedie faced stinging criticism from national Olympic committees on Wednesday for its handling of the Russian doping scandal, days before its board meeting where the Scot is up for re-election.

Read more

Los Angeles 2024 bid plays down concerns after Trump win

DOHA (Reuters) - Los Angeles 2024 Olympic bid leaders on Tuesday sought to allay concerns within the Olympic movement following Donald Trump's U.S. presidential election victory, saying the candidacy would continue to "celebrate our diversity".

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WADA's Reedie under fire from Olympic committees

DOHA (Reuters) - The World Anti-Doping Agency and its head Craig Reedie faced stinging criticism from national Olympic committees on Wednesday for its handling of the Russian doping scandal, days before its board meeting where the Scot is up for re-election.

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Prescott 'earned the right' to start: Cowboys' Romo

(The Sports Xchange) - Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is officially a backup and said on Tuesday that rookie Dak Prescott deserves to be the starter for the 8-1 team.

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Los Angeles 2024 bid plays down concerns after Trump win

DOHA (Reuters) - Los Angeles 2024 Olympic bid leaders on Tuesday sought to allay concerns within the Olympic movement following Donald Trump's U.S. presidential election victory, saying the candidacy would continue to "celebrate our diversity".

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Prescott 'earned the right' to start: Cowboys' Romo

(The Sports Xchange) - Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is officially a backup and said on Tuesday that rookie Dak Prescott deserves to be the starter for the 8-1 team.

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Los Angeles 2024 bid plays down concerns after Trump win

DOHA (Reuters) - Los Angeles 2024 Olympic bid leaders on Tuesday sought to allay concerns within the Olympic movement following Donald Trump's U.S. presidential election victory, saying the candidacy would continue to "celebrate our diversity".

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Francona, Roberts named Managers of the Year

(The Sports Xchange) - Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona and Los Angeles Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts were named the American League and National League Managers of the Year in a vote by members of the Baseball Writers Association of America, it was announced on Tuesday.

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Prescott 'earned the right' to start: Cowboys' Romo

(The Sports Xchange) - Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is officially a backup and said on Tuesday that rookie Dak Prescott deserves to be the starter for the 8-1 team.

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Francona, Roberts named Managers of the Year

(The Sports Xchange) - Cleveland Indians manager Terry Francona and Los Angeles Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts were named the American League and National League Managers of the Year in a vote by members of the Baseball Writers Association of America, it was announced on Tuesday.

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Prescott 'earned the right' to start: Cowboys' Romo

(The Sports Xchange) - Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is officially a backup and said on Tuesday that rookie Dak Prescott deserves to be the starter for the 8-1 team.

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Gerrard to consider future after leaving LA Galaxy

(Reuters) - Former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard will leave Los Angeles Galaxy and take time out to consider his next move, the midfielder said on Tuesday.

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Prescott 'earned the right' to start: Cowboys' Romo

(The Sports Xchange) - Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is officially a backup and said on Tuesday that rookie Dak Prescott deserves to be the starter for the 8-1 team.

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Gerrard to consider future after leaving LA Galaxy

(Reuters) - Former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard will leave Los Angeles Galaxy and take time out to consider his next move, the midfielder said on Tuesday.

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Prescott 'earned the right' to start: Cowboys' Romo

(The Sports Xchange) - Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is officially a backup and said on Tuesday that rookie Dak Prescott deserves to be the starter for the 8-1 team.

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Djokovic digs deep to repel Raonic onslaught

LONDON (Reuters) - It has been missing for a while but Novak Djokovic rediscovered his warrior spirit to tame Canada's Milos Raonic 7-6(6) 7-6(5) in a rivetting duel and guarantee progress from his group at the ATP World Tour Finals on Tuesday.

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Gerrard to consider future after leaving LA Galaxy

(Reuters) - Former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard will leave Los Angeles Galaxy and take time out to consider his next move, the midfielder said on Tuesday.

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Gerrard to consider future after leaving LA Galaxy

(Reuters) - Former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard will leave Los Angeles Galaxy and take time out to consider his next move, the midfielder said on Tuesday.

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Dennis forced out of McLaren after 35 years

LONDON (Reuters) - Ron Dennis has been forced to stand down as chairman and chief executive of McLaren, bringing to an end his 35-year involvement with the Formula One team.

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Gerrard to consider future after leaving LA Galaxy

(Reuters) - Former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard will leave Los Angeles Galaxy and take time out to consider his next move, the midfielder said on Tuesday.

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Gerrard to consider future after leaving LA Galaxy

(Reuters) - Former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard will leave Los Angeles Galaxy and take time out to consider his next move, the midfielder said on Tuesday.

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Gerrard to consider future after leaving LA Galaxy

(Reuters) - Former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard will leave Los Angeles Galaxy and take time out to consider his next move, the midfielder said on Tuesday.

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Swiss-based trade union to inspect Qatar 2022 World Cup sites

DOHA (Reuters) - A global trade union for construction workers that has criticized labor conditions in Qatar will inspect soccer stadiums being built for the 2022 World Cup in the Gulf Arab state.

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New Euro series designed to stop elite drift to U.S. Tour

LONDON (Reuters) - The European Tour has ramped up efforts to persuade Rory McIlroy, Henrik Stenson and its other elite golfers to turn their backs on the U.S. circuit by launching the money-spinning Rolex Series.

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French Anti-Doping Agency faces test cuts due to funds shortage

PARIS (Reuters) - The French Anti-Doping Agency (AFLD) is poised to enforce a 20 percent reduction in testing due to a lack of government funding.

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Rookie Cowboys duo have 'America's Team' riding high

(Reuters) - The Dallas Cowboys have taken the NFL by storm this season thanks to better-than-expected performances from two rookies who have quickly become the faces of 'America's Team' and given a jolt to sagging TV ratings.

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Formula One thankful for near-miss in Brazil

SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Formula One served up plenty of excitement in Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix but some were counting their lucky stars that nobody was hurt.

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Returning hero Murray masters Cilic, Nishikori wins

LONDON (Reuters) - If Andy Murray was grateful to Marin Cilic for facilitating his rise to the summit this month it was not evident as he added the Croatian to his lengthening list of victims at the ATP World Tour Finals on Monday.

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WADA suspends Doha anti-doping laboratory

(Reuters) - Doha's anti-doping laboratory has had its accreditation suspended for four months after it failed to comply with international standards, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said in a statement on Monday.

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Pistorius moved to different prison to aid rehabilitation

JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South African Paralympic gold medalist Oscar Pistorius has been moved to a prison better suited to his rehabilitation while serving a six year jail term for murdering his girlfriend, a prison service spokesman said on Monday.

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American Reed retains European Tour card despite Turkey no-show

LONDON (Reuters) - U.S. Ryder Cup talisman Patrick Reed will keep his European Tour card next season despite failing to play the required number of events to retain membership.

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Broncos stun Saints with blocked PAT return for wild win

(The Sports Xchange) - Denver safety Justin Simmons leaped over the center to block a potential game-winning extra point attempt and safety Will Parks returned it 84 yards for a two-point defensive conversion to lift the Broncos to a wild 25-23 victory over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday.

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Hamilton win takes Formula One title battle down to last race

SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Triple world champion Lewis Hamilton won a stop-start, wet and chaotic Brazilian Grand Prix on Sunday to take the Formula One title battle with Mercedes team mate Nico Rosberg down to the wire in Abu Dhabi.

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Djokovic beats Thiem after scare

LONDON (Reuters) - Deposed world number one Novak Djokovic suffered a scare at the hands of Austrian debutant Dominic Thiem before launching his bid for a fifth successive ATP World Tour Finals title with a 6-7(10) 6-0 6-2 victory on Sunday.

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Injured Howard to miss U.S. qualifier in Costa Rica

(Reuters) - Veteran United States goalkeeper Tim Howard will miss the World Cup qualifier against Costa Rica on Tuesday because of a thigh injury, U.S. Soccer announced on Sunday.

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Czech Republic too hot for France, win Fed Cup

STRASBOURG, France (Reuters) - The Czech Republic were too hot to handle in the doubles as they claimed a 3-2 comeback win against hosts France to capture their fifth Fed Cup title in six years on Sunday, and 10th overall.

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Unknown issue with referee got me ejected: Anthony

(Reuters) - New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony said he believed there was an underlying issue with referee Tony Brothers that was the reason behind him being ejected from Friday's game against the Boston Celtics.

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Garcia floors Pliskova to put France ahead in Fed Cup final

STRASBOURG, France (Reuters) - Caroline Garcia put on another aggressive display to floor world number six Karolina Pliskova 6-3 3-6 6-3 and give France a 2-1 lead over defending champions Czech Republic in the Fed Cup final on Sunday.

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British swimmer to brave sharks and heavy weather in Atlantic crossing

DAKAR (Reuters) - A 38-year-old British man set out on Sunday on a 2,000 mile (3,200 km) swim from Senegal to Brazil, seeking to become the first person to make it across the Atlantic Ocean.

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McGregor knocks out Alvarez to make UFC history

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Featherweight champion Conor McGregor capped the UFC's triumphant return to New York by knocking out Eddie Alvarez to claim the lightweight crown and become the first fighter in the history of the promotion to hold two UFC belts simultaneously.

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Mercedes boss plays down Verstappen phone call

SAO PAULO (Reuters) - Max Verstappen says he will take the fight to Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg in Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix and cannot be expected to do otherwise, despite Mercedes boss Toto Wolff ringing the Dutch teenager's father to discuss the situation.

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Vikings rule out cornerback Munnerlyn against Redskins

(The Sports Xchange) - The Minnesota Vikings have downgraded cornerback Captain Munnerlyn to out for Sunday's game against the Washington Redskins.

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