Marco Bianchi 
Scottish darts player Cameron Menzies was taken ill with high blood pressure during his World Matchplay second‑round match in Blackpool. After feeling dizzy and fainting, he was escorted off the stage and could not return, resulting in a 1‑2 defeat to Ross Smith. The PDC confirmed he was cleared medically but had to forfeit the match.
Spain midfielder Gavi said he does not believe Argentina’s Leandro Paredes should be suspended for his role in the post‑final fracas that erupted after Spain’s 1‑0 World Cup win. The incident involved several Argentine players and staff, and FIFA has opened a disciplinary investigation.
Everton have confirmed the signing of Finnish international Jutta Rantala from Leicester City, activating an undisclosed release clause. The 26‑year‑old forward joins a squad that has already added two other former Leicester players this summer as they look to improve on an eighth‑place finish in the Women’s Super League.
Larne were beaten 4-0 at home by Red Star Belgrade in the first leg of the Champions League second qualifying round. Manager Gary Haveron praised his side’s effort but acknowledged the quality gap, saying the competition was a step too far for the club.
Former Wales and British & Irish Lions full‑back Leigh Halfpenny has signed on as a full‑time skills coach at Cardiff Rugby. He will work with the club’s kickers, scrum‑halves and academy players, bringing experience from his recent role as Wales’ kicking coach.
The PGA Tour and DP World Tour have announced a new partnership with the Asian Tour, extending their strategic alliance to at least 2029. The move, welcomed by players like Rory McIlroy, further isolates LIV Golf, which is seeking new investment after losing Saudi backing.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson says the club feel privileged to return to the US for a pre‑season tour, where they will play three Premier League opponents. The schedule includes games against Leeds United in Tampa, Liverpool in New York and Sunderland in Philadelphia, with the squad looking to build on previous successful tours.
Rangers and Celtic face disciplinary hearings after a violent incident at Ibrox during their Scottish Cup quarter‑final, where supporters clashed and police made 37 arrests. The Scottish Football Association has issued identical complaints to both clubs and will consider stronger sanctions at a hearing on 13 August.
Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez said he is reflecting on whether it is time to step aside from international football after the team’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final. The 33‑year‑old, a World Cup winner in 2022 and two‑time Yashin Trophy holder, expressed his disappointment and uncertainty about his future with the national side.
Colombian striker Jhon Duran has moved to Portuguese giants Benfica on a season‑long loan from Saudi club Al‑Nassr, with a £5.19 million fee and an option to buy for £25.5 million at the end of the 2026‑27 season. The 22‑year‑old, who has already played for six clubs across five countries, aims to establish himself at his seventh club.