Kylian Mbappe etched his name into football history by surpassing Lionel Messi to become the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history. The French superstar achieved the landmark during the 2026 World Cup, further cementing his status as one of the game's greatest players. Mbappe's remarkable consistency across multiple World Cups has seen him rewrite the record books at a relatively young age. Breaking Messi's long-standing record marks a defining moment in international football and highlights the changing of the guard, with Mbappe establishing a new benchmark for future generations on the world's biggest stage. (PC: X)

India's PV Sindhu captured the Japan Open 2026 women's singles title after defeating home favourite Akane Yamaguchi 21-17, 21-17 in a commanding final. Sindhu produced a composed and aggressive performance, controlling key rallies and maintaining consistency throughout the match. The victory marks one of her most significant achievements in recent years, reinforcing her return to top form on the international badminton circuit. Beating a former world champion on Japanese soil adds further significance to the triumph. The title is expected to boost Sindhu's confidence ahead of upcoming major tournaments, including the BWF World Tour events and international championships. (PC: Getty Images)

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain, Lionel Messi delivered an emotional message to Argentina, urging his teammates to enjoy the occasion, stay united, and give everything on the field. Widely expected to be playing in his final World Cup, Messi reflected on the team's remarkable journey and thanked supporters for their unwavering belief. His words have energized fans worldwide as Argentina prepares to defend its world title. The message highlights Messi's leadership, determination, and desire to end his World Cup career with another historic triumph for Argentina. (PC: Getty Images)

England secured third place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a thrilling 6-4 victory over France in one of the tournament's most entertaining matches. Bukayo Saka starred with a sensational hat-trick, while Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa and Jude Bellingham also found the net. England raced into a commanding 4-0 halftime lead before Kylian Mbappé inspired a remarkable French comeback with two goals and an assist, narrowing the deficit to 5-4. However, Bellingham sealed England's bronze medal with a late strike, giving Thomas Tuchel's side a memorable finish to their World Cup campaign. (PC: AFP)

France and England meet in the FIFA World Cup 2026 third-place playoff in Miami after both teams fell short in the semi-finals. France lost 2-0 to Spain, while England suffered a 2-1 defeat to defending champions Argentina. France captain Kylian Mbappe is chasing history by aiming to become the first player to win the FIFA World Cup Golden Boot twice. England, led by Harry Kane, are hoping to secure their first-ever World Cup bronze medal. Although the title is out of reach, both teams will look to finish the tournament on a high with a victory. (PC: NDTV)

The FIFA World Cup 2026 may have cost US employers an estimated $11.7 billion in lost productivity, according to a report by human resources software provider UKG. Globally, productivity losses were estimated at $17 billion as many employees arrived late, left early or missed work to watch matches. Workplace attendance in the US dropped 26% on July 7, a day after the national team was eliminated by Belgium, a trend Envoy called “Knockout Tuesday.” Several companies encouraged remote work on match days. Attendance is expected to see only a small dip after the July 19 final between Argentina and Spain. (PC: X)

India's Minerva Academy Under-12 team successfully defended the Gothia Cup after beating Brazil's RS Sports Yellow 2-1 in the final. The victory came just days after the Chandigarh-based academy won the Helsinki Cup, completing a memorable European double. Kipgen Thangsanglen scored the opening goal, while Mekhamkhraw Nongrem netted the winner with a free-kick. Minerva remained unbeaten throughout the tournament and defeated teams from England, Norway, Sweden, Kenya, France, Bolivia and Ukraine. The latest triumph adds to the academy's growing list of international titles and highlights the rising standard of Indian youth football.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain has become the most expensive sporting event in the United States, according to reports. The average ticket price is 11,327 dollars, setting a new record. The most expensive ticket is priced at 28,479 dollars, or about ₹27 lakh. The match will be played at MetLife Stadium. Ahead of the final, Lionel Messi also spoke about Spain's young star Lamine Yamal. He called Yamal "one of the best in the world" and wished him success. The final is expected to attract huge global attention and record crowds. (PC: AFP)

Lionel Messi looked annoyed after Spain coach Luis de la Fuente was interrupted by the crowd during an event before the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The coach was answering a question when people started making noise. He stayed calm and asked everyone to show respect and listen. Messi did not speak but his reaction was caught on camera. The video quickly went viral on social media. Spain will face Argentina in the World Cup final. De la Fuente called it a great match between two strong teams. He also praised Messi and said Lamine Yamal should grow at his own pace.

The BCCI has reportedly asked India's national selectors to avoid speaking to the media amid growing speculation over Rohit Sharma's ODI future. Reports suggesting the third ODI against England could be Rohit's last in the format were dismissed by BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, who said the veteran opener will continue as long as he remains in the team's plans. According to reports, the board is unhappy with information being leaked from within the selection process. Rohit's recent form has come under scrutiny, with the 39-year-old scoring just 37 runs in the first 2 ODIs against England. (PC: NDTV)