Ian Nolan, a former Manchester United executive, has been appointed as the new chief executive of the Rugby Football League (RFL). He will assume the role on 1 October, succeeding interim leaders Abi Ekoku and Rhodri Jones. RFL Chair Nigel Wood praised Nolan as the ideal candidate to lead the sport during a pivotal period, highlighting the success of the recent Magic Weekend event.
Five-time Olympic backstroke champion Kaylee McKeown has medically withdrawn from the 2026 Commonwealth Games and Pan Pacific Swimming Championships due to glandular fever. The 24-year-old Australian athlete cited health concerns after initially mistaking the illness for the flu, with Swimming Australia head coach Rohan Taylor supporting her decision to prioritize recovery.
Rory McIlroy shot a five-under round of 65 in the first day of the Scottish Open, sharing the lead at the Renaissance Club. The event is part of the golf tournament series, with McIlroy’s performance highlighting his strong start.
18-year-old Australian sprinter Gout Gout has suffered a complete hamstring tear during training in Brisbane, ending his season and forcing him to miss the U20 Championships. The injury, requiring 3-6 months of rehabilitation, follows his world U20 200m record of 19.67 seconds set in April 2026.
Dame Sarah Storey, Great Britain’s most-decorated Paralympian with 30 medals across nine Games, has retired from international competition. The 48-year-old cyclist cited the need to focus on improving Para-sport and criticized the lack of progress since London 2012. She will not compete at Los Angeles 2028, aiming to leverage new roles to advocate for Para-sport.
The R&A introduced ‘The Open Commitment’ to promote respectful behavior among spectators at The Open. The code aims to preserve traditions and address recent incidents of unsavoury conduct at golf events, including the 2025 Open at Royal Portrush and the US Open.
Wicklow manager Oisin McConville leads his team to the Tailteann Cup final against Down, aiming for his first inter-county trophy. The final will be held at Croke Park, with McConville emphasizing the importance of seizing the opportunity for silverware.
Amber Rutter of Great Britain secured a bronze medal at the ISSF Shotgun World Cup in Lonato, Italy, marking her return to international competition after giving birth to her second son in October. She finished behind world-record holders Sara Bongini and Victoria Larsson in the new 36-target finals format.
Nordic Combined has been removed from the 2030 Winter Olympics program, the first time it will not feature since its 1924 debut. The International Olympic Committee cited limited competitors and low public interest as reasons for the decision, though the sport could return in 2034. The 2030 Games in the French Alps will also introduce Freeride and Synchro9 (figure skating) and aim for 50% female athlete participation.
The IOC has provisionally lifted Russia’s suspension, enabling athletes to compete under their national identity at the 2028 Olympics. The decision does not yet allow the display of Russia’s flag, colors, or anthem. Russian sports minister Mikhail Degtyarev welcomed the move, emphasizing the need for the Olympics to remain free from politics.