India earned its second medal in the history of tennis at the World University Games 2025, thanks to the remarkable performance of 20-year-old Vaishanvi Adkar. Adkar secured her place in the semifinals of the women’s singles tennis competition after defeating Germany’s home favorite, Sina Herrmann, with a decisive score of 6-1, 6-4 on July 22, 2025.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for Indian tennis within the context of the World University Games. Prior to this event, the nation had only one tennis medal in its history, emphasizing the historical significance of Adkar’s victory. Competing in the vibrant atmosphere of the Games, her performance not only showcases her talent but also highlights the growing prominence of tennis in India.

Adkar’s path to the semifinals has captured the attention of sports enthusiasts, particularly as she overcame a challenging opponent in Herrmann. The match demonstrated her solid technique and mental resilience, essential traits for success at this level. Her success has been met with excitement and pride among Indian supporters, who are eager to see how she will perform in the upcoming semifinal.

The World University Games, organized by the International University Sports Federation (FISU), provides a platform for student-athletes from around the world to compete at a high level. As the event continues, many eyes will be on Adkar as she aims to further her historic run.

With this latest achievement, Vaishanvi Adkar is set to make her mark in the semifinals, as she strives for not only personal success but also to inspire the next generation of athletes in India. The buzz surrounding her journey reflects a growing interest in tennis, as well as a hopeful future for the sport in the country.

Liam Dawson is set to make his long-awaited return to England’s Test cricket team in the fourth Test against India, replacing Shoaib Bashir. This marks Dawson’s first appearance in the format since July 2017, representing a remarkable eight-year gap in red-ball cricket. The England team currently leads the five-match series 2-1.

Dawson’s Experience Enhances England’s Lineup
At 34 years old, Dawson brings a wealth of experience to the squad. His inclusion not only bolsters England’s spin department with his left-arm orthodox bowling but also adds significant depth to the lower order. Dawson holds an impressive first-class record, featuring 18 centuries and a batting average of 35.29, which is notably higher than that of current opener Zak Crawley.

Dawson’s previous stint with the national team included being part of England’s victorious 2019 World Cup squad. After a series of sporadic appearances in white-ball cricket in 2022, his international career seemed uncertain. Earlier this summer, Dawson had expressed a realistic outlook on his chances of playing for England again. Yet, his unexpected recall for the T20I series against the West Indies in May reignited hopes of a Test comeback.

An Unexpected Selection
In a surprising twist, Dawson has leapfrogged fellow left-arm spinner Jack Leach, who has been a consistent member of the England squad and holds a central contract. The selectors opted for Dawson, citing his extensive experience and recent form as key factors in their decision.

Teammate Harry Brook praised Dawson’s character, stating, “He brings experience and guile. He’s very skilful and a great bloke. He was nervous before his T20 comeback, and I’m sure he’ll be nervous again this week, but his experience and skills will guide him.”

England’s Lineup for the Fourth Test
The England team for the fourth Test against India includes: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Liam Dawson, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, and Jofra Archer.

Current Series Status
England currently leads the five-match Test series against India 2-1. The home team secured victories in the first Test at Leeds and the third Test at Lord’s, while India managed to bounce back with a win in the second match at Edgbaston.

As Dawson prepares to re-enter the Test arena, all eyes will be on how he contributes to the team’s efforts in this crucial match against India.

Indian chess players Koneru Humpy and Divya Deshmukh have advanced to the semifinals of the FIDE Women’s World Cup, marking a significant achievement for Indian chess. Humpy made history by becoming the first Indian female player to reach this stage of the tournament, overcoming China’s Yuxin Song in the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, 19-year-old Deshmukh triumphed over her compatriot and experienced player, Harika Dronavalli, in a tense tiebreaker.

The semifinals will feature a highly anticipated showdown between Humpy and Deshmukh. The first game is scheduled for July 22, 2024, at 16:45 IST. The second game will follow on July 23, 2024, also at 16:45 IST. Should the match require further resolution, tiebreaks are set for July 24, 2024, beginning at 16:35 IST.

Fans can catch all the action live as the matches will be streamed on FIDE’s YouTube channel, providing a global audience with access to this high-stakes competition. With both players representing India at this prestigious event, their performances are generating excitement and pride among chess enthusiasts across the country.

As the semifinals approach, the chess community eagerly anticipates the clash between two talented players who have demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the tournament.

Italy’s women’s football team marked a remarkable milestone by securing a spot in the semifinals of Euro 2025 after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Norway on March 27, 2024. The late match hero was veteran striker Cristiana Girelli, who scored both goals, propelling her team to their first semifinal appearance since 1997. The victory sparked jubilant celebrations among players and fans alike, highlighting the significance of Girelli’s contributions to the sport.

With over 120 caps and 60 goals in her impressive 12-year international career, Girelli’s performance was a fitting narrative for a team that has seen substantial growth. Italy’s women’s football only became fully professional three years ago, having previously operated under amateur status since 1981, where players could earn a maximum of €30,000 annually. The national team has participated in every Euro tournament except for the 1995 edition, marking a total of 11 appearances.

Girelli expressed her emotions following the quarterfinal victory: “It’s a dream that becomes reality. Since we arrived in Switzerland, but also when we started the camp, I felt something special. I saw in the eyes of my teammates something I can’t explain in words.” Under the guidance of manager Andrea Soncin, who took the helm in September 2023, the team’s unity and connection have played a crucial role in their success thus far.

The camaraderie within the squad is palpable. Forward Michela Cambiaghi described the team as “down-to-earth girls brought together by a shared dream” and emphasized their ability to support each other even in tense moments. Italy has fully embraced the tournament atmosphere, celebrating each victory together and creating cherished memories.

After their group stage performance, which included a disappointing 3-1 loss to Spain, the team’s resilience shone through as they relied on other results to advance. Following the match, players gathered around defender Elisabetta Oliviero to listen to the critical outcome from the Portugal versus Belgium match. The moment culminated in jubilant celebrations, with players singing along to Natasha Bedingfield‘s song “Unwritten,” capturing the essence of their journey.

The celebratory spirit has been a consistent theme throughout Italy’s campaign, with music serving as a backdrop to their triumphs. After defeating Denmark 3-0 in the Nations League, midfielder Arianna Caruso suggested bringing a Bluetooth speaker to games, a move that has become central to their celebrations. The atmosphere within the team, characterized by positivity and joy, has been a defining feature of their performance.

Soncin, a former striker with experience in lower-league Italian football, has made significant strides in rebuilding the squad after a series of disappointing tournaments. His meticulous approach to training, which includes intensive gym sessions and focused analyses of opponents, reflects his commitment to the team’s growth. The medical staff, dressed in Armani suits and football boots, further illustrates the professionalism Soncin has instilled within the team.

As Italy prepares to face defending champions England in the semifinals, their recent success has positioned them as underdogs with nothing to lose. While England has a strong historical advantage, having won their last encounter 5-1 in a friendly match in February 2024, Italy’s determination and confidence cannot be underestimated.

The team’s meticulous preparation extends to watching the Spain versus Switzerland quarterfinal in anticipation of potential future matchups. With a mindset focused on enjoying every moment, Italy is ready to embrace the challenge ahead. As the iconic celebration song suggests, “the rest is still unwritten,” and Italy stands poised to write a new chapter in their football history against England in Geneva.