Syria, a country once known for its rich history and cultural heritage, now finds itself in the midst of a humanitarian crisis of unprecedented proportions. The ongoing conflict and political instability have ravaged the nation, leaving thousands dead and millions displaced. While the world's attention may have shifted elsewhere, the situation in Syria remains dire, with no end in sight to the suffering of its people.
The recently retired Andy Murray is going to team up with longtime rival Novak Djokovic as his coach, they both announced Saturday, with plans to prepare for — and work together through — the Australian Open in January. It was a stunning bit of news as tennis moves toward its offseason, a pairing of two of the most successful and popular players in the sport, both of whom are sometimes referred to as members of a so-called Big Four that also included Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal . Djokovic is a 24-time Grand Slam champion who has spent more weeks at No. 1 than any other player in tennis history. Murray won three major trophies and two Olympic singles gold medals and finished 2016 atop the ATP rankings. He ended his playing career after the Paris Summer Games in August. Both men are 37 and were born a week apart in May 1987. They started facing each other as juniors and wound up meeting 36 times as professionals, with Djokovic holding a 25-11 advantage. "We played each other since we were boys — 25 years of being rivals, of pushing each other beyond our limits. We had some of the most epic battles in our sport. They called us game-changers, risk-takers, history-makers," Djokovic posted on social media over photos and videos from some of their matches. "I thought our story may be over. Turns out, it has one final chapter. It's time for one of my toughest opponents to step into my corner. Welcome on board, Coach — Andy Murray." Djokovic's 2024 season is over, and it was not up to his usual, high standards. He didn't win a Grand Slam trophy; his only title, though, was meaningful to him: a gold medal for Serbia in singles at the Summer Games. Djokovic has been without a full-time coach since splitting in March from Goran Ivanisevic. "I'm going to be joining Novak's team in the offseason, helping him to prepare for the Australian Open," Murray said in a statement released by his management team. "I'm really excited for it and looking forward to spending time on the same side of the net as Novak for a change, helping him to achieve his goals." Their head-to-head series on tour includes an 11-8 lead for Djokovic in finals, and 8-2 at Grand Slam tournaments. Djokovic beat Murray four times in the Australian Open final alone — in 2011, 2013, 2015 and 2016. Two of the most important victories of Murray's career came with Djokovic on the other side of the net. One was in the 2012 U.S. Open final, when Murray claimed his first Grand Slam title. The other was in the 2013 Wimbledon final, when Murray became the first British man in 77 years to win the singles championship at the All England Club. Next year's Australian Open starts on Jan. 12.The "Future Plan" initiative by Fat Dong Lai also sets a positive example for other businesses in the industry, showcasing the benefits of innovative approaches to managing workflow and adapting to changing market dynamics. By embracing flexibility, creativity, and employee-centric policies, companies can not only improve employee satisfaction and retention but also stay ahead of the competition in a rapidly evolving market landscape.So, as Sora takes his place among the legendary fighters of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, let us all take a moment to breathe a sigh of relief. The wait is over, the dream has become a reality, and Sora's presence in the game is a testament to the enduring power of video games to inspire, uplift, and bring joy to players of all ages. Welcome, Sora, and thank you for reminding us that, no matter how dark the night may seem, the light of our dreams will always guide us home.
The Sonic the Hedgehog movie franchise has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide with its perfect blend of action, humor, and nostalgia. The first movie, released in 2020, introduced fans to the speedy blue hedgehog as he teamed up with the lovable human character Tom to stop the evil Dr. Robotnik from taking over the world. The film was praised for its fast-paced action sequences, stunning visuals, and heartfelt story, appealing to both long-time fans of the video game series and newcomers alike.Lindsey Vonn takes another step in comeback at age 40, competes in a pair of downhillsFans of Overwatch will instantly recognize the reference to the 303 tactic, a tried-and-true strategy that became a staple in high-level competitive matches. The 303 tactic revolves around a specific combination of hero abilities and positioning that allows for maximum damage output and team synergy. Originally popularized by professional players in the Overwatch League, the 303 tactic quickly became a go-to strategy for teams looking to secure victory.
Hong Kong Stock Market: Maogeping Surges 87% on Debut, Shows Strong Performance on First DayThe news of Liu Damaeli's death has raised concerns about the impact of the online celebrity culture on individuals' mental health and well-being. Many internet influencers are under constant pressure to maintain a certain image, deal with negative comments and criticisms, and keep up with the demands of their followers. This relentless scrutiny can take a toll on their mental health, leading to stress, anxiety, and even depression.
It's a heartwarming scene that has captured the attention of many fans and netizens - Xue Jianing paying a visit to her good friend Zhao Lusi once again. The close bond between the two actresses has been a source of delight for their fans, who admire their genuine friendship in the cutthroat entertainment industry. Georgia quarterback Carson Beck has been ruled out for the second half of Saturday's SEC Championship Game against Texas after being injured on the final play of the first half. Texas' Trey Moore forced a fumble on Beck's pass attempt, appearing to injure the Georgia quarterback's throwing arm. Beck remained motionless on the field for a short time before joining the team in the locker room. Coach Kirby Smart told ESPN at halftime that Beck was done for the day. During the third quarter, Beck was seen with ice on his right elbow. Beck completed 7 of 13 passes for 56 yards and was sacked once before exiting. Georgia backup Gunner Stockton entered and led Georgia on a 10-play, 75-yard opening second-half drive, giving the Bulldogs their first lead at 10-6. Bulldogs punter Brett Thorson injured his left knee in the third quarter and was ruled out of the contest. He was taken off on a cart. --Field Level Media
Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard practices for first time this season
Fugitive dog gains fame in New Orleans eluding dart guns and nets
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — John Elway says any remorse over bypassing Josh Allen in the 2018 NFL draft is quickly dissipating with rookie Bo Nix's rapid rise, suggesting the Denver Broncos have finally found their next franchise quarterback. Elway said Nix, the sixth passer selected in April's draft, is an ideal fit in Denver with coach Sean Payton navigating his transition to the pros and Vance Joseph's defense serving as a pressure release valve for the former Oregon QB. “We’ve seen the progression of Bo in continuing to get better and better each week and Sean giving him more each week and trusting him more and more to where last week we saw his best game of the year,” Elway said in a nod to Nix's first game with 300 yards and four touchdown throws in a rout of Atlanta. For that performance, Nix earned his second straight NFL Rookie of the Week honor along with the AFC Offensive Player of the Week award. “I think the sky’s the limit," Elway said, “and that’s just going to continue to get better and better.” In a wide-ranging interview with The Associated Press, Elway also touted former coach Mike Shanahan's Hall of Fame credentials, spoke about the future of University of Colorado star and Heisman favorite Travis Hunter and discussed his ongoing bout with a chronic hand condition. Elway spent the last half of his decade as the Broncos’ GM in a futile search for a worthy successor to Peyton Manning, a pursuit that continued as he transitioned into a two-year consultant role that ended after the 2022 season. “You have all these young quarterbacks and you look at the ones that make it and the ones that don’t and it’s so important to have the right system and a coach that really knows how to tutelage quarterbacks, and Sean’s really good at that,” Elway said. “I think the combination of Bo’s maturity, having started 61 games in college, his athletic ability and his knowledge of the game has been such a tremendous help for him,'" Elway added. “But also Vance Joseph’s done a heck of a job on the defensive side to where all that pressure’s not being put on Bo and the offense to score all the time.” Payton and his staff have methodically expanded Nix’s repertoire and incorporated his speed into their blueprints. Elway lauded them for “what they’re doing offensively and how they’re breaking Bo into the NFL because it’s a huge jump and I think patience is something that goes a long way in the NFL when it comes down to quarterbacks.” Elway said he hopes to sit down with Nix at some point when things slow down for the rookie. Nix, whose six wins are one more than Elway had as a rookie, said he looks forward to meeting the man who won two Super Bowls during his Hall of Fame playing career and another from the front office. “He’s a legend not only here for this organization, but for the entire NFL," Nix said, adding, "most guys, they would love to have a chat with John Elway, just pick his brain. It’s just awesome that I’m even in that situation.” Orange Crush linebacker Randy Gradishar joined Elway in the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year, something Elway called “way, way overdue.” Elway suggested it's also long past time for the Hall to honor Shanahan, who won back-to-back Super Bowls in Denver with Elway at QB and whose footprint you see every weekend in the NFL because of his expansive coaching tree. Elway called University of Colorado stars Travis Hunter and Shedeur Sanders “both great athletes." He said he really hopes Sanders gets drafted by a team that will bring him along like the Broncos have done with Nix and he sees Hunter being able to play both ways in the pros but not full time. Elway said he thinks Hunter will be primarily a corner in the NFL but with significant contributions on offense: “He's great at both. He's got great instincts, and that's what you need at corner." It's been five years since Elway announced he was dealing with Dupuytren’s contracture, a chronic condition that typically appears after age 40 and causes one or more fingers to permanently bend toward the palm. Elway's ring fingers on both hands were originally affected and he said now the middle finger on his right hand is starting to pull forward. So, he’ll get another injection of a drug called Xiaflex, which is the only FDA-approved non-surgical treatment, one that he's endorsing in an awareness campaign for the chronic condition that affects 17 million Americans. The condition can make it difficult to do everyday tasks such as shaking hands or picking up a coffee mug. Elway said what bothered him most was “I couldn't pick up a football and I could not imagine not being able to put my hand around a football." AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
Guerrilla Wall Labels Protest Keffiyeh Ban at Noguchi MuseumAutomakers have struggled to come to terms with a series of headwinds, including a lack of affordable models, a slower-than-anticipated rollout of charging points, intense competition from China, tougher carbon regulations and the prospect of targeted U.S. tariffs. It is against this backdrop, analysts say, that the industry will be bracing for a bumpy ride next year. "Unfortunately, we believe the industry is likely to head into another year of volatility and headwinds across regions," analysts at Deutsche Bank said in a research note. > 24/7 San Diego news stream: Watch NBC 7 free wherever you are A perfect storm of challenges for the European automobile industry shows no sign of letting up, analysts say. Automakers have struggled to come to terms with a series of headwinds on the road to full electrification , including a lack of affordable models, a slower-than-anticipated rollout of charging points, intense competition from China , tougher carbon regulations and the prospect of targeted U.S. tariffs . It is against this backdrop, analysts say, that the industry will be bracing for a bumpy ride next year. Julia Poliscanova, senior director for vehicles and e-mobility supply chains at the campaign group Transport & Environment, described the outlook for European automakers as "quite bleak." "They are behind on electrification, their products are just not as good as the formidable Chinese competition – and that is not anyone's fault but the carmakers," Poliscanova told CNBC via video call. Money Report Greece's ghost towns offer a glimpse of a country struggling with ‘existential' population collapse China's monetary shift signals economic worries, but ‘bazooka-style' stimulus is unlikely, experts say Poliscanova highlighted the fact that car sales in Europe remain below pre-Covid-19 levels as the industry continues its struggle with getting to grips with higher interest rates. Some of Europe's original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have expressed concern about the next tightening of carbon regulations, particularly as electric vehicle demand falters. Read more Auto giants are getting nervous about the prospect of mega fines as EV demand falters 'Europe's Detroit' built a thriving car industry. Trump tariffs now threaten to unravel its success Germany’s auto giants are struggling to stay relevant The European Union's cap on average emissions from new vehicles sales is poised to fall to 93.6 grams of CO2 per kilometer (g/km) from next year, reflecting a 15% decrease from a 2021 baseline of 110.1 g/km. Exceeding those limits — which were agreed in 2019 and form part of the 27-nation bloc's ambition to reach climate neutrality by 2050 — can result in hefty fines. The European Automobile Manufacturers' Association, or ACEA, has called on the EU to ease the 2025 compliance costs "while keeping the green mobility transformation firmly on track." The car lobby group, which represents the likes of BMW , Ferrari , Renault , Volkswagen and Volvo , said in late November that action is necessary to further support the industry, citing sluggish EV demand and a deteriorating economic climate. Transport & Environment's Poliscanova said it is "really frustrating" to see some calling for the European Commission to water down its carbon regulations. "For me, it is not linked ... The car CO2 target is not going to help them in China or sell more cars, that is not the point. The vehicle CO2 target, however, is critical in making them more competitive and making them transition quicker," Poliscanova said. "So, it is pushing them, even if it is to the detriment to some of their higher profit margins in the short term, it is pushing them to make the products that are viable in the future," she added. A move to delay the fines would be the same as scrapping the regulation altogether, Poliscanova said, warning this would only delay the inevitable, "which is the demise of the European industry." "We are behind on electrification. So, how on Earth does delaying the target and making us even more behind going help the industry? I don't get it. I just don't get how it helps the transition they have to go through," Poliscanova said. A European Commission spokesperson was not immediately available to comment on calls to provide regulatory relief to carmakers from next year. An EU spokesperson previously told CNBC that the bloc's executive arm is "sensitive to the challenges that are being faced" by the industry. Shares of the European auto industry's so-called "big five" — Volkswagen, Mercedes , BMW, Stellantis and Renault — have broadly plummeted this year, although France's Renault is a notable exception. Milan-listed Stellantis has led the losses, down 38% year-to-date, with Germany's crisis-stricken Volkswagen falling 23% and Munich-headquartered BMW tumbling 21% over the same period. Renault, meanwhile, has notched gains of 19% amid hopes the carmaker might fare better than its rivals due to its relatively limited exposure to China and U.S. markets. "Automotive stocks are having a hard time globally," analysts at Deutsche Bank said in a research note published Dec. 9. "Unfortunately, we believe the industry is likely to head into another year of volatility and headwinds across regions. We expect more noise of potential policy implications in the US, further restructuring announcements in Europe, muted demand ex China and pricing to soften," they added. Rico Luman, senior sector economist for transport and logistics at Dutch bank ING, shared a pessimistic view on the outlook for Europe's OEMs. "From a financial perspective, it won't be better I'm afraid because [EVs] are less profitable models in the end," Luman told CNBC via video call. "They tend to focus on conventional hybrids much more and also plug-in hybrids because of the profitability there. So, if they are forced to shift more to fill EVs then it will affect profitability. So, from a financial perspective I'm not expecting much improvement at this point," he added. Several of Europe's biggest carmakers unveiled a flurry of low-cost EVs at the Paris Motor Show in October, seeking to jump-start a demand slump and recapture some of the market share now held by Chinese brands. It was hoped at the time that the new models could represent a turning point for the region's auto industry. Horst Schneider, head of European automotive research at Bank of America, said some leeway from European lawmakers may be necessary to support carmakers next year, even though the companies have had years to prepare for the new carbon regulations. "Most carmakers are running behind, maybe except BMW and Stellantis. Volkswagen has got the biggest gap because it is also the largest carmaker and most exposed to [Internal Combustion Engines]. The EV launches have flopped, kind of, but also Renault is under pressure," Schneider told CNBC's "Street Signs Europe" on Dec. 6. "So, therefore, I would say all the mass market carmakers – expect Stellantis – are under pressure, just because the EV prices are still sitting too much above the ICE price, it is something like 20% or 25%," Schneider said. "What people need is cheaper EVs. They get launched in the course of 2025, so some carmakers are saying there is no need really to cut the targets – but I think in general it is good to give the carmakers more time because acceptance on the consumer side is just not yet there," he added. Also on CNBC This is the best time of year to buy a used car — it's not Memorial Day Stellantis CEO Tavares lost control of automaker with 'arrogant' mistakes, sources say Stellantis and CATL team up to build $4.3 billion EV battery plant in Spain
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