Colossalbet Blog

Category: Sports

  • Minjee Lee returns to the world’s top five

    Aussie superstar Minjee Lee is back in the world’s top five as she strives to build an everlasting legacy for the future generations of women’s golf.

    Minjee Lee has returned to the world’s top five and has more milestones in sight following her second win from her past three LPGA Tour starts.

    Lee surged from seventh to world No.4 in the standings released on Tuesday after holding her nerve to win a thrilling, high-quality sudden-death playoff at the BMW Ladies Championship in South Korea.

    Up to as high as No.2 and within striking distance of world No.1 following her stellar major-winning 2022 campaign, Lee slumped to 13th in the rankings less than two months ago.

    Now the West Australian is the hottest player on the planet, with a victory at the Kroger Queen City Championship in Cincinnati four starts ago opening the floodgates for the ball-striking queen.

    Lee followed up that victory with a runner-up showing on the Korea Tour and a tie for 13th at the Buick LPGA Shanghai before joining Celine Boutier, Lilia Vu, Jin Young Ko and Ruoning Yin as a multiple winner in 2023.

    But still more landmark feats appear in store for the 27-year-old as the race to season-ending championship glory intensifies.

    With four events remaining, Lee has soared to sixth in the season-long standings and seems certain to break into the top 10 on the list of all-time prize money winners in women’s golf.

    With Sunday’s triumph, which completed an unprecedented brother-sister double after her sibling Min Woo Lee won the Macau Open the previous week, the Perth prodigy sent her career on-course earnings to $US13,765,643. ($A21.72 million).

    She sits 11th on the all-time money list, just $US85,312 behind the 10th-placed Lexi Thompson.

    After making the cut in all 17 events she’s contested this season, Lee could surpass Thompson at this week’s inaugural Maybank Championship in Kuala Lumpur, where the total purse is $US3 million.

    If she plays in Malaysia, Lee will tee off in the best headspace of her nine-year professional career as she strives to build an everlasting legacy for the future generations of women’s golf.

    “I actually have a really great (life) balance now because I know what I like and the routine that I do at the golf course which works for me and my body,” she said.

    “So I don’t just go out to the golf course to hit a hundred putts or do practice that is not worthy of time.

    “In that aspect, I’m much better at managing my time and my routine.

    “But in terms of the person that I want to be, I’ve always had this motto; I want to leave the LPGA Tour or the game of golf better than I found it, so that is my goal after I retire.

    “If it is on a golf course or how I am as a role model on TV, or if I’m doing clinics or anything that I can do to give back to Australian golf or LPGA girls’ golf or any junior who comes out to watch us, I’m going to try and do that.”

  • French’s dream week ends as he downs French with Wigan

    Bevan French has won the Super League grand final with Wigan as they beat Catalans Dragons in an anti-climactic end to Mitchell Pearce’s career.

    Australian flyer Bevan French has ended a triumphant week in which he was voted British rugby league’s top player by helping Wigan beat Catalans Dragons 10-2 in the Super League grand final at Old Trafford.

    But as French and fellow former Parramatta Eel Jai Field celebrated Wigan’s win in Manchester on Saturday, there was to be no fairytale ending to the career of Aussie playmaker Mitchell Pearce, who couldn’t inspire the Dragons to become the first French winners of the British game’s top prize.

    “The celebrations have gone on longer than the game,” beamed the triumphant French, who had started the week by being crowned the Man of Steel as the League’s star performer of the season.

    “I’m really proud of getting the win here. Every lesson we’ve come across this year we’ve seemed to come out the other end.

    “In the last couple of seasons, when we got challenged in tough grinding games that’s when we seemed to fall off – but not this time.”

    The versatile French said his friends and family back home in Tingha, NSW, would have stayed up into the early hours to savour the best moment of his career.

    “It’s five or six in the morning there and everyone will be having beers. I hope they’re up enjoying it as much as we are,” he said.

    Liam Marshall proved the match-winner, grabbing the only try of an attritional game, as Wigan ran out fairly convincing winners of a sixth Super League crown, and their first in five years.

    It was an anti-climactic end to the career of two fine performers – Pearce, 10 years since he won an NRL grand final with the Sydney Roosters, and England star Sam Tomkins, whose dream was shattered by his former club.

    Two yellow cards proved fatal for the Perpignan side, who lost their second final in three years.

    Australian Adam Keighran was sent to the sin bin midway through the first half for a tip tackle and Tom Davies after the break for an intentional block on Marshall.

    Pearce had his moments in his farewell appearance, not least when he produced a remarkable try-saving tackle to hold up Liam Farrell.

    But the man whose controversy-riddled career has enjoyed a welcome upturn since moving to the south of France trooped off in the 67th minute having failed to provide the spark the Dragons needed.

    French and Field, the pair who have become cult figures at Wigan, nearly combined for a memorable try, but Field’s pass that sent his friend over the try line was clearly forward.

    But just two minutes later, Wigan delivered the coup de grace on their French opponents with Farrell setting up Marshall to go over.

    Leading 8-2 at the hour mark, another mistake from Keighran – this time a high tackle on Tyler Dupree – gifted Smith the chance to lift Wigan into an irretrievable two-score lead.

  • Demon capable of ending Australian Open drought: Hewitt

    Australian tennis great Lleyton Hewitt believes Alex de Minaur is capable of beating anyone on his day and can make a deep run in January’s Australian Open.

    Alex de Minaur has the game to break into world’s top 10 and have a serious crack at ending the host nation’s Australian Open men’s title drought, Lleyton Hewitt says.

    Ash Barty broke a 44-year drought when she claimed the women’s crown in 2022, but no Australian man has won a home major since Mark Edmondson in 1976.

    Hewitt went close in 2005 when he lost the final to Russia’s Marat Safin, while Pat Cash was runner-up in consecutive years in 1987-88.

    De Minaur has reached the fourth round at Melbourne Park in each of the last two years and has since risen to a career-best world ranking of No.11.

    To end the Open drought, de Minaur would have to put a stop to 10-time champion Novak Djokovic’s dominance.

    “He’s certainly got a chance,” Davis Cup captain Hewitt told reporters at the Australian Open 2024 launch on Wednesday.

    “He can do some pretty special things and I have full confidence every time he goes out there for me in Davis Cup that he can beat anyone.

    “He’s put himself in a position seeding-wise where he’s going to give himself a shot.

    “You can never take any of those first couple of rounds easily but he’ll be ready for those.

    “If he can get through and not cause too much damage to his body physically then I think he can push deep.”

    Australian fans responded to Hewitt’s trademark grit throughout his decorated career and the two-time grand slam champion sees similar qualities in de Minaur.

    “I know deep down that he would love nothing more than to make a really big run here (in Melbourne) and get the crowd behind him,” Hewitt said.

    “They’ll feed off his determination and his never-say-die attitude every time he goes out there.”

    De Minaur’s impressive season on the ATP Tour includes winning a seventh career title at Acapulco and three other finals appearances.

    The 24-year-old is now within sight of becoming the first Australian since Hewitt to crack the world’s top 10.

    He is also a chance to make his first appearance at the prestigious ATP Tour finals, to be held in Turin in November.

    “He’s getting there. I always knew that he was going to be a top-10 player, I had full belief in that,” Hewitt said.

    “He’s hopefully going to get his opportunity over the next few months to crack into the top 10.”

  • Aussie Volkanovski answers late SOS for UFC showdown

    UFC fighter Alexander Volkanovski has taken up a last-minute offer to challenge Islam Makhachev for the lightweight belt, in a rematch of his February defeat.

     

    Australian Alexander Volkanovski will be given the chance to become the fourth man in history to simultaneously hold two different UFC belts, after accepting a last-minute rematch against lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.

    Volkanovski’s camp on Wednesday took up the offer to fight Makhachev in Dubai on October 21, after challenger Charles Oliveira withdrew from the UFC294 event through injury.

    That prompted UFC officials to contact Volkanovski, who was beaten by Makhachev for the lightweight belt by unanimous decision in Perth in February.

    Already the UFC featherweight champion since December 2019, Volkanovski will now have a second chance to contend for the lightweight belt in Dubai.

    UFC boss Dana White praised Volkanovski and his team for taking up the offer at the last minute, leaving the 35-year-old with only 11 days to prepare.

    “The Volkanovski crew, these guys are absolute studs, man,” White said.

    “He jumps in and accepts the fight.

    “This is how we do it. One fight falls out and we end up making a fight. “It’s one of the most anticipated rematches ever in that weight class.”

    Volkanovski’s preparation will not be without their challenges.

    The short lead-in time aside, Volkanovski defended his featherweight crown in the lower weight division in July and has since had surgery on his arm.

    The NSW south coast junior had not intended to return to the octagon until January, when he was scheduled to fight Ilia Topuria in Toronto.

    But Volkanovski had long eyed another shot at Makhachev ever since he was beaten in Perth earlier this year.

    The Australian unleashed with a final-round barrage in that battle, prompting many to believe he had done enough to claim the belt.

    If he wins later this month he will join Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier and Henry Cejudo to hold belts in two separate weight divisions at the same time.

    Makhachev has not fought since the February fight against Volkanovski and has a 24-1 record, with four knockouts. Volkanovski holds a 26-2 record with 13 knockouts.

  • Cam Davis set for Australian Open and PGA Championship

    Coming off a career-best PGA Tour in the US, Aussie golf star Cam Davis is on the hunt for his second Stonehaven Cup at the Australian Open in November.

    More than five years since an astonishing Australian Open victory, Cam Davis is setting his sights on winning a second Stonehaven Cup.

    The rising star of Aussie golf confirmed on Thursday he would take on the Australian PGA Championship in Brisbane this November, before heading home to Sydney for a shot at another Australian Open title.

    “It’s always enjoyable to come back home and to be part of the Summer Golf in Australia,” Davis said.

    “I have great memories of The Australian and going back there, as well as The Lakes, for the Open is something I’m very much looking forward to.”

    Ranked outside the top 1000 in the world, then 22-year-old Davis produced a sensational against-the-odds performance to take out the 2017 Australian Open.

    Davis, now 28, enjoyed seven top-10 finishes on the PGA Tour in 2023 and tied for fourth at the PGA Championship to execute his best finish to date in his young major championship career.

    He recently finished joint-third at the Fortinet Championship in California to reach a career-high Official World Golf Ranking of 44.

    Perhaps returning to his underdog status, Davis will face a formidable opponent in Australia’s No.1 drawcard Cam Smith at the Australian Open, who will also have another crack at the two local majors.

    Despite three Australian PGA titles to his name, the Stonehaven Cup has eluded Smith – his best finish was a playoff defeat to American Jordan Spieth in 2016.

    The two tournaments are part of a new summer schedule for the 2023/24 PGA Tour of Australasia, which includes trips to five states and New Zealand.

    Having begun with the PNG Open in May, the Tour’s schedule includes two new events – the Webex Players Series in South Australia in October and January’s Heritage Class in Melbourne.

    More than $9 million in prizemoney will be up for grabs in the Tour’s 18 events in a bid to grow the sport in Australia.

    “The fact is that all these kids can’t make enough money in this country to really hone their game,” veteran Australian golfer Paul Gow said on Thursday.

    “Five or six years ago, we had a handful of events and it was awful. The players had nothing.

    “Now, they’ve got something. They’ll make enough money and off they can go and they can support their career.”

  • Extended Australian Open to serve up Sunday start

    Organizers of the Australian Open have announced the 2024 tournament will go for an extended 15 days, starting on a Sunday in a bid to limit late-night matches.

    The Australian Open will start on a Sunday in 2024, becoming a 15-day event in a bid to reduce the pressure on players and fans of late-night finishes.

    Calls have been growing to limit the finish times in a crowded schedule at the season-opening grand slam event in Melbourne.

    Five-time finalist Andy Murray this year played a near six-hour, five-set marathon against Thanasi Kokkinakis that did not reach its conclusion until past 4am, the former world No.1 describing the finish time as “ridiculously late”.

    The 2024 tournament has been scheduled to run from January 14-28.

    The Sunday start will increase the number of sessions on Melbourne Park’s three showpiece courts – Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena and John Cain Arena – from 47 to 52.

    Day sessions on Rod Laver and Margaret Court will feature a minimum of two matches, rather than three as previously, to limit the potential for late finishes.

    Night sessions will continue to feature a minimum of two matches.

    Tournament director Craig Tiley said the changes had come about after listening to feedback from players and fans to limit late finishes.

    “The additional day will achieve this, benefiting scheduling for fans and players alike,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.

    “The first round will now be played over three days instead of two.”

  • Socceroos playmaker Tom Rogic announces retirement

    Socceroos playmaker Tom Rogic has retired and says he and his wife’s fertility issues and a desire to focus on his family were a key factor.

    Talismanic Socceroo Tom Rogic has retired from football to focus on his family.

    Rogic, one of the most talented Socceroos in recent years who also starred for Scottish powerhouse Celtic, has called time after scoring 10 goals in 53 internationals between 2012 and 2022.

    The intensely private Canberran opened up on he and his wife’s struggles with fertility before welcoming their daughter in 2021, and with twins due next year, they have returned to Australia to focus on raising their family.

    “After careful consideration I have made the decision to retire from professional football,” Rogic said in a statement posted to Instagram.

    “I have always been rather private with things in my personal life but I feel given the significance, I think it is important for people to understand why and how I have made my decision.

    “Throughout the past seven years, my wife and I have been on an immensely challenging journey with fertility issues.

    “After years of trying and many failed rounds of IVF, my wife and I were fortunate enough to welcome the birth of our daughter in 2021. I have loved every minute of being a dad and consider it my greatest achievement in life.

    “After experiencing some more struggles and heartache with fertility treatment, we have recently received the amazing news that our family is growing and we will be expecting twins in 2024.

    “Given our past and how hard we have fought for this, along with the challenges that will come with having twins and a two year old, now seems like the right time to give my focus and attention to what is the most important thing in my life – my family.”

    The 30-year-old last played for Australia in a World Cup qualifier against Oman in 2022, but withdrew before the play-offs for personal reasons.

    He was left out of Australia’s squad for the Qatar World Cup and hasn’t featured since.

    Rogic missed the 2014 World Cup through injury and was one of the final omissions from the 2018 tournament, though he starred at the 2019 Asian Cup.

    The former futsal player started his career at Central Coast Mariners, winning the A-League premiership before moving to Scotland and later had a short loan stint at Melbourne Victory.

    He won 16 trophies at Celtic but most recently played for West Bromwich Albion, who released him in May after a short and difficult stay.

  • Cleary adds to legacy with second Clive Churchill Medal

    Nathan Cleary’s name has been etched among the greats with a man-of-the-match performance in Penrith’s 26-24 grand final defeat of Brisbane.

    Nathan Cleary has etched his name in the pantheon of great NRL halfbacks, winning a second Clive Churchill Medal and third premiership – all before the age of 26.

    In Penrith’s defeat of Brisbane at Accor Stadium on Sunday, the halfback masterminded the biggest comeback in grand final history.

    He set two tries up and scored one to help Penrith claw back from 24-8 down after 62 minutes, to 26-24 up at the final whistle.

    The performance cemented Cleary’s status as one of the great modern playmakers, and dispelled the narrative that he goes missing in games.

    Cleary has now won more grand finals than either Andrew Johns or Jonathan Thurston and is the first halfback since Peter Sterling to win three premierships before the age of 26.

    Having won the Clive Churchill Medal after the first of Penrith’s three consecutive title wins, Cleary is only the third man to have won the Clive Churchill Medal more than once.

    He joins Bradley Clyde and Billy Slater in an elite club.

    “I just feel like what he’s done in this space of time, there’s been no other halfback that has done it,” said Penrith co-captain Isaah Yeo.

    “I reckon if you put his statistics up against any other halfback at this point, he’s 25, no-one’s done what he’s done.

    “That 20-minute period he put the team on his back and he won us our third grand final in a row. I’m very happy he’s our leader and he’s our seven. It’s a privilege to play with him.”

    Cleary described Sunday’s game as the most difficult of his career.

    “It honestly doesn’t feel real right now,” Cleary said.

    “To the Broncos boys, absolute beast team, very young.

    “Thanks for that game, it’s the hardest game I’ve ever played. To our boys, it’s nothing but love. We’ve worked so hard for this and we’re still just getting started.”

    For his first assist, Cleary dummied past Broncos five-eighth Ezra Mam and burst away down the right edge before finding prop Moses Leota on the inside.

    He kicked a 40/20 in the set after points to keep the pressure on, and then threw the last pass to Stephen Crichton to bring the margin to only four points.

    Cleary capped his night off by stepping inside a hole in the final four minutes and sealing victory with a try of his own.

    He kicked a perfect five from five goals and ran for 162 metres, the third-most of any Panther.

  • A Legendary Test of Seamanship and Adventure “Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race”

    Hobart Yacht Race Route Map

    The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is an exhilarating and challenging sailing event that captivates the world’s attention. Spanning approximately 628 nautical miles from Sydney Harbour to Hobart, Tasmania, this iconic race combines the awe-inspiring power of the ocean with the skills and determination of skilled sailors. In this blog, we embark on a thrilling journey into the world of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, exploring its history, the grueling racecourse, and the enduring spirit of adventure that drives participants and ignites the imagination of sailing enthusiasts worldwide.

    A Legendary Ocean Challenge: The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is renowned as one of the world’s toughest offshore sailing challenges. Starting on Boxing Day, this annual race pushes sailors to their limits, testing their seamanship, strategy, and physical endurance as they navigate treacherous seas and unpredictable weather conditions. Only the most skilled and courageous sailors dare to take on this ultimate test of sailing prowess.

    The Spectacular Racecourse: The racecourse from Sydney to Hobart encompasses the stunning beauty of the Australian coastline and the unpredictable waters of the Bass Strait. Sailors face a multitude of challenges, including strong winds, large swells, and potential encounters with marine wildlife. The demanding conditions demand constant vigilance and skillful navigation, making every mile a true test of mental and physical strength.

    Rich History and Tradition: Since its inception in 1945, the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race has built a rich tapestry of history and tradition. Each year, a fleet of diverse yachts, ranging from classic wooden vessels to state-of-the-art racing machines, participate in the race, showcasing the evolution of sailing technology. The race’s storied past is filled with incredible moments, memorable triumphs, and enduring rivalries that have captured the imagination of sailing enthusiasts worldwide.

    Spirit of Adventure and Camaraderie: The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race embodies the spirit of adventure, teamwork, and camaraderie that is intrinsic to the world of sailing. Crew members must work together in harmony, relying on their expertise and trust in each other to navigate the challenges of the race. The shared experiences, shared hardships, and the bonds formed during this incredible journey create lifelong friendships and memories that endure far beyond the race itself.

    A Celebration of Maritime Heritage: The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race not only celebrates the pursuit of adventure but also pays homage to Australia’s rich maritime heritage. It showcases the country’s affinity for the sea, its adventurous spirit, and its deep-rooted connection to sailing. The race serves as a reminder of the explorers and adventurers who braved the waters before, forging paths and pushing boundaries to discover new horizons.

    The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is a true testament to the indomitable spirit of sailors who embrace the challenges of the open ocean. This legendary race combines breathtaking natural beauty, intense competition, and the unwavering pursuit of adventure. As the yachts set sail on this epic journey, they embody the essence of human determination and the timeless allure of the sea. The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race will continue to inspire generations of sailors and capture the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide, forever etching its place as a pinnacle of maritime excellence and seafaring adventure.

  • Boxing Day Test: A Cricket Tradition Steeped in Excitement

    boxing-day-test

    The Boxing Day Test holds a special place in the hearts of cricket fans around the world. As a cherished tradition in Australia, this iconic match brings together intense competition, unwavering passion, and a festive atmosphere. Held annually on the day after Christmas at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the Boxing Day Test serves as a thrilling showcase of the sport’s rich history and enduring spirit. In this blog, we delve into the captivating world of the Boxing Day Test, exploring its significance, traditions, and the indelible memories it creates

    A Historic Fixture: The Boxing Day Test is a long-standing tradition that dates back to 1950. It holds immense importance in the cricket calendar, symbolizing the pinnacle of summer cricket in Australia. Taking place at the iconic MCG, which boasts a capacity of over 100,000 spectators, this match attracts a diverse array of fans who come together to witness a battle of skills, strategy, and resilience.

    The Festive Spirit: The Boxing Day Test carries a unique festive atmosphere that sets it apart from other cricket matches. It serves as a post-Christmas gathering for families and friends, who flock to the MCG to indulge in cricketing action while enjoying the holiday season. The stadium buzzes with excitement as fans bring along their picnics, don their team colors, and engage in spirited banter, creating a joyous and inclusive ambiance.

    Legendary Rivalries and Memorable Performances: The Boxing Day Test has witnessed some of cricket’s most memorable moments and remarkable individual performances. From thrilling run-chases to extraordinary batting feats, the match has provided a stage for cricketing heroes to etch their names in history. Iconic rivalries between Australia and various touring teams have unfolded at the Boxing Day Test, intensifying the spectacle and captivating audiences with their fierce contests.

    The Iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground: The MCG, with its hallowed turf and impressive architecture, forms the backdrop for the Boxing Day Test. As one of the world’s largest cricket stadiums, it offers an awe-inspiring setting for the match. The stadium’s rich heritage, dating back to 1853, adds to the sense of occasion, while its vast capacity ensures an incredible atmosphere that reverberates with the cheers and chants of passionate fans.

    A Celebration of Cricketing Traditions: The Boxing Day Test upholds various cherished traditions that add to its allure. The playing of the National Anthem, the delivery of the first ball by a distinguished guest, and the unveiling of banners and flags by supporters are just a few of the customs that enhance the match’s sense of occasion. The iconic ‘Bay 13’ spectator area, known for its boisterous atmosphere, further adds to the unique experience of the Boxing Day Test.

    The Boxing Day Test embodies the essence of cricketing tradition, uniting fans in a celebration of the sport’s heritage and camaraderie. From its historic significance to the electric atmosphere at the MCG, this match encapsulates the spirit of summer cricket in Australia. For both devoted cricket enthusiasts and casual spectators, attending the Boxing Day Test is a chance to be part of something truly special—a showcase of skill, passion, and the timeless magic of the game. So, grab your cricket bat, put on your favorite team jersey, and immerse yourself in the thrilling world of the Boxing Day Test.