World Rugby is trialling a size 4.5 ball across the women's WXV Global Series in September and October. Players have reported mixed early results, and the governing body says a full analysis is planned for early 2027.
Ben Shelton beat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2, 6-3, 6-4 under the Arthur Ashe Stadium lights, sending the American into a high-profile US Open quarterfinal against defending champion Carlos Alcaraz.
Christopher Bell passed Kyle Larson with 12 laps remaining to win the Southern 500 at Darlington, ending a 33-race winless run and moving to second in NASCAR's Chase standings.
Thomas Carty's team says illegal punches and loose ropes contributed to his fall from the ring against David Allen at Croke Park. Carty was treated for a suspected concussion and the heavyweight bout ended as a no-contest.
Aryna Sabalenka defeated Taylor Townsend 6-4, 6-3 to reach a sixth straight US Open quarter-final and extend her winning run in New York to 17 matches.
Wigan Warriors captain Liam Farrell will retire at the end of the 2026 season after 428 appearances and 18 major trophies. The 36-year-old has spent his entire senior career with the Super League club.
