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Barca Sensation Lamine Yamal Vows to Skip School if Spain Wins Euro 2024

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Lamine Yamal, the 16-year-old Barcelona prodigy and Spain’s newest football sensation, has made a bold declaration: he won’t return to school this summer if Spain emerges victorious in Euro 2024. The young winger, who has become one of the world’s best in his debut senior season, is juggling his international football duties with academic responsibilities during the tournament in Germany.

Yamal is rumored to take his homework to the team room.

In a candid interview with Cope, Yamal revealed the unique challenges of balancing schoolwork with his Euro 2024 commitments. “Since we have a lot of free time, when I’m in the room with nothing to do, I take the iPad and do a couple of homework assignments,” Yamal explained. He added that he alternates between studying and joining teammates Nico and Fermín for PlayStation sessions.

For the duration of the championship, Yamal’s school has assigned him homework and projects. However, the young star humorously remarked, “If we reach the final, I won’t come back; I’ll go directly on vacation.” This statement underscores the extraordinary situation Yamal finds himself in, competing at the highest level of European football while still being a school student.

Yamal vows not to go back to school if Spain with Euro 2024.

The Barcelona forward has already made history at Euro 2024, becoming the youngest player ever to feature in the tournament during Spain’s match against Croatia. He nearly claimed another record against Italy, coming close to becoming the youngest goalscorer in European Championship history.

Despite the pressure that comes with these accolades, Yamal remains grounded. When asked about being the youngest player in the tournament, he responded, “It doesn’t scare me. I play the same. I strive to concentrate on performing well, and I believe this ultimately benefits me, as my age amplifies my accomplishments.”

The tournament schedule places Spain’s next match against Albania on June 24. If La Roja does make it to the final, as Yamal hopes, he will indeed miss the remainder of the school term, returning only after the summer break.

Yamal started playing for Spain senior team at 16.

This situation highlights the unique challenges faced by young athletes competing at the highest levels of professional sports. Yamal’s ability to maintain his academic commitments while excelling on the international stage is a testament to his dedication and maturity beyond his years.

As Spain progresses through Euro 2024, all eyes will be on this extraordinary teenager, both for his on-field performances and his off-field balancing act between football stardom and typical teenage responsibilities.

Goal.com

Half-Naked Woman Caught in Dramatic Dallas Freeway Incident

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A shocking incident on a Dallas freeway has captured widespread attention after a video of a half-naked woman engaged in a physical altercation with a driver went viral on social media. The footage, which has been described as resembling scenes from an action movie, has raised concerns about public safety and prompted an investigation by local authorities.

The video begins with a disturbing scene: a woman, noticeably without pants, is seen throwing punches at another woman seated in the driver’s seat of a car parked on the side of the freeway. The altercation quickly escalates in an unexpected and dangerous direction.

As the confrontation unfolds, the driver suddenly accelerates, with the half-naked woman still partially inside the vehicle. The woman becomes caught in the car door and is dragged along the freeway as the car speeds away. This alarming turn of events has left viewers and authorities alike scrambling for answers.

The graphic nature of the video and the potential for serious injury have sparked intense discussions on social media platforms about road safety, public decency, and the appropriate response to such situations. Many users expressed shock and concern for the well-being of both individuals involved in the incident.

As of now, the fate of the two women remains unknown, leaving many to speculate about the circumstances that led to this dangerous confrontation and its aftermath. The incident has prompted calls for increased highway patrol presence and better protocols for handling roadside disputes.

Local law enforcement, including the Dallas Police Department and state troopers, have been contacted for comment on the incident. However, at the time of reporting, no official statement has been released regarding the event or any potential investigations.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unexpected dangers that can occur on public roadways and the importance of maintaining composure in high-stress situations. It also highlights the power of social media in bringing attention to public safety issues and the need for prompt response from law enforcement agencies.

As this story continues to develop, authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward to assist in their investigation.

TMZ

Olivier Rioux, At 7’9″, Set to Become Tallest College Basketball Player in History

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Olivier Rioux, an incoming freshman at the University of Florida, is set to make history as the tallest college basketball player ever at an astounding 7’9″. The Montreal native, who once held the Guinness World Record for the tallest teenager, has experienced a remarkable growth journey that has led him to this unprecedented milestone.

Rioux’s extraordinary height has been evident from a young age. At just eight years old, he stood 6’1″, and by sixth grade, he was approaching 7 feet. His commitment to the Florida Gators last fall listed him at 7’6″, but recent roster updates now place him at 7’9″, surpassing the previous record held by Paul Sturgess, who stood at 7’8″ while playing for Florida Tech and Mountain State from 2007 to 2011.

Olivier Rioux, an incoming freshman at the University of Florida is 7’9″ and still growing.

At 18 years old, there’s speculation that Rioux may still be growing. If he maintains his current trajectory and makes it to the NBA, he could potentially become the tallest player in the league’s history as well.

Rioux has embraced his unique stature, expressing in a previous Guinness World Records interview that he enjoys the attention and interactions his height brings. He views his height as an advantage in basketball, saying, “I see everything from a higher angle, which gives me an advantage during a game.”

The Canadian athlete comes from a tall family, with his father standing at 6’8″ and his mother at 6’2″. However, even Rioux admits that the exact reason for his extreme height remains a mystery, with doctors attributing it primarily to genetics.

While Rioux’s height offers many advantages, particularly in basketball, it also comes with challenges. Finding appropriate clothing and navigating standard-sized environments can be difficult. Despite these obstacles, Rioux maintains a positive outlook, stating, “This is what nature planned for me. I learned to be peaceful and happy about it.”

Olivier Rioux, an incoming freshman at the University of Florida is 7’9″ and still growing set to be tallest in college basketball history.

Rioux’s basketball journey began at age 5, and his height has been a factor throughout his career. In high school, he noted that opponents often challenged him more intensely due to his size, viewing him as a formidable adversary.

As Rioux prepares to join the Gators, the basketball world watches with anticipation. His unprecedented height could revolutionize college basketball strategies and potentially influence the future of the sport at higher levels.

While Rioux’s 7’9″ stature is extraordinary in the world of basketball, it’s worth noting that he’s not the tallest man in the world. That title belongs to Sultan Kösen, a Turkish farmer who stands at nearly 8’3″.

As Olivier Rioux embarks on his college basketball career, he’s not just reaching new heights physically; he’s also elevating the possibilities of what can be achieved in the sport.

CNN

Russian American Woman Faces Treason Trial in Russia Amid Rising US-Russia Tensions

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In what will further strain US-Russia relations, the treason trial of Russian American dual citizen Ksenia Karelina opened on Thursday in Yekaterinburg, Russia. The case unfolds against a backdrop of increasing tensions between Washington and Moscow, particularly concerning the detention of American journalists in Russia.

Karelina, identified by Russian authorities as a Los Angeles resident, was born in Yekaterinburg and arrested in February while visiting family. The trial is being conducted behind closed doors in the same court set to hear the case of Evan Gershkovich, a Wall Street Journal reporter arrested in March 2023 on espionage charges.

Russian American dual citizen Ksenia Karelina.

The Federal Security Service, Russia’s primary domestic security agency, alleges that Karelina raised funds for a Ukrainian organization supplying weapons, ammunition, and other resources to the Ukrainian military. However, according to reports citing her boyfriend, she made only a single donation of approximately $50 to a Ukrainian organization.

If convicted, Karelina faces a potential 20-year prison sentence. The gravity of the charges and the closed nature of the proceedings have raised concerns among international observers, especially given that Russian criminal cases that reach trial typically result in convictions.

The case has drawn parallels with other recent detentions of US citizens in Russia, including Gershkovich and WNBA star Brittney Griner, highlighting the precarious situation for Americans in Russia amid deteriorating bilateral relations.

Russian American dual citizen Ksenia Karelina

US officials have not yet publicly commented on Karelina’s case, but the trial is likely to further complicate diplomatic efforts between the two nations. The State Department has previously warned US citizens about the risks of traveling to Russia, citing the potential for arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the targeting of foreign nationals.

The trial’s first session concluded on Thursday afternoon, with the next hearing scheduled for August 7. As the case progresses, it is expected to attract significant international attention and potentially impact ongoing negotiations between the US and Russia on various issues, including the fate of detained citizens on both sides.

This case underscores the complex geopolitical landscape and the personal toll of escalating tensions between major world powers. It also raises questions about the safety of dual citizens and the challenges of navigating international law in an era of heightened global conflict.

Taylor Swift Debuts ‘The Black Dog’ Live at Wembley Stadium, Draws Star-Studded Crowd

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International pop sensation Taylor Swift, 34, made waves at London’s Wembley Stadium on Friday, June 21, by performing “The Black Dog” live for the first time during the opening night of her Eras Tour stop. The surprise performance came during her acoustic set, with Swift donning an orange dress for the occasion.

Many people speculate that “The Black Dog,” a track from Swift’s latest album “The Tortured Poets Department,” is about her brief relationship with The 1975’s frontman Matty Healy. The song, which references a South London pub and the pop-punk band The Starting Line, adds another layer to Swift’s intricate songwriting tapestry.

Taylor Swift performing at the Wembley, London.

“I’ve never played this one live before,” Swift announced to the enthusiastic crowd, as captured in videos shared on social media. The performance was part of her “surprise songs” section, where she typically offers acoustic renditions of lesser-played tracks from her extensive catalog.

Contrary to fan predictions, Swift did not perform “London Boy” or “So Long, London,” both rumored to be about her previous six-year relationship with Joe Alwyn. Instead, she treated the audience to “Hits Different” from “Midnights,” “Death By A Thousand Cuts” from “Lover,” and a mash-up of “Maroon” and “Come Back… Be Here.”

Taylor Swift performing at the Wembley, London.

The concert drew a star-studded crowd, including Swift’s boyfriend, NFL player Travis Kelce, alongside celebrities like Nicola Coughlan, Cara Delevingne, and Jonathan Van Ness. Political figures were also present, with Labour Party leader Keir Starmer in attendance. The Prince of Wales and royal children were reportedly in attendance.

Adding a royal touch to the event, Buckingham Palace welcomed Swift with a special rendition of “Shake It Off” performed by the military band during the changing of the guard.

Taylor Swift performing at the Wembley, London.

In a related development, singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams shared a video on Instagram showing Swift helping to extinguish a fire in her New York City apartment. The two artists collaborated on the song “us” from Abrams’ new album “The Secret of Us,” which was released the same day as Swift’s Wembley performance.

With two more nights scheduled at Wembley before moving on to Dublin, Swift continues to captivate audiences with her evolving artistry and star power. The Eras Tour remains a testament to Swift’s enduring influence in the music industry and popular culture.

Attacker of Nancy Pelosi’s Husband Found Guilty of Additional Charges, Faces Potential Life Sentence

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David DePape, the man previously sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for attacking Paul Pelosi, husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, has been found guilty of additional charges in a state court. This verdict, delivered by a San Francisco jury on Friday, could potentially result in a life sentence for DePape.

The state court convicted DePape of aggravated kidnapping, first-degree burglary, false imprisonment of an elder, and threatening a family member of a public official. These charges come on top of his federal convictions for assaulting a federal official’s family member and attempting to kidnap a federal official.

David DePape, Nancy and her husband, Paul Pelosi.

The case stems from the October 2022 incident where DePape broke into the Pelosi residence in San Francisco and attacked Paul Pelosi with a hammer, causing severe injuries. The attack sent shockwaves through the political community and raised concerns about the safety of elected officials and their families.

During the state trial, DePape’s public defender, Adam Lipson, conceded guilt on three of the charges but argued that prosecutors had not presented sufficient evidence for the charges of threatening a family member of a public official and aggravated kidnapping. These two charges were added by prosecutors in late May, as DePape’s federal trial was concluding.

Paul Pelosi.

The federal sentencing of 30 years came after an unusual resentencing hearing due to a judicial error. It’s worth noting that DePape, a Canadian citizen, will likely face deportation after serving his sentence.

This state conviction adds another layer of legal consequences for DePape. The aggravated kidnapping charge, in particular, carries the potential for a life sentence, which could significantly extend DePape’s time behind bars beyond the federal sentence.

David DePage jailed multiple times for attacking Paul Pelosi.

The case has continued to draw attention not only for its high-profile nature but also for its implications regarding political violence and the security of public officials. It underscores the serious legal ramifications for attacks on political figures and their families.

As the legal proceedings against DePape conclude, the incident remains a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by public figures and the severe consequences for those who engage in politically motivated violence.

Celeste Arantes, Mother of Soccer Legend Pelé, Dies at 101 in Brazil

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The Brazilian football community is in mourning following the death of Celeste Arantes, mother of soccer legend Pelé, who passed away on Friday at the age of 101. Arantes, affectionately known as “Celestinha” by her famous son, had been in a vegetative state for the past five years and was unaware of Pelé’s death in December 2022.

Pele died December 29, 2022, and his mom at 101-years died on June 21, 2024.

After an eight-day hospitalization, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) confirmed Arantes’ passing, though they did not disclose the exact cause of death. Her departure marks the end of an era in Brazilian football history, coming just over a year after the loss of her son, widely regarded as one of the greatest soccer players of all time.

Pele died December 29, 2022, and his mom at 101-years died on June 21, 2024.

The Pelé Foundation released a statement expressing mixed emotions, saying, “We deeply mourn the departure of ‘Celestinha,’ as her son affectionately called her. At the same time, we are eternally grateful for her existence.” The foundation hailed Dona Celeste as the “queen mother,” emphasizing her lasting impact on both Pelé’s life and Brazilian football culture.

Santos FC, where Pelé spent the majority of his illustrious career, paid tribute to Arantes, describing her as “the mother of our eternal king.” The club highlighted her resilience, stating, “She had 101 years of an inspiring life story. She was a black woman who faced endless adversities in life for the good of her family.

Pele died December 29, 2022, and his mom at 101-years died on June 21, 2024.

Arantes played a crucial role in shaping Pelé’s career, despite initial reservations about her son becoming a professional footballer. Her journey from skepticism to support mirrored Edson Arantes do Nascimento’s rise to international stardom, known globally as Pelé.

Pelé, one of Celeste Arantes’ three children,’s success on the world stage brought unprecedented attention to their family. Her life story, spanning over a century, encapsulates the dramatic changes in Brazilian society and the global football landscape.

The passing of Celeste Arantes not only represents a personal loss for the Pelé family but also closes a significant chapter in the annals of Brazilian and world football history. Her legacy, intertwined with that of her legendary son, will continue to inspire future generations of soccer enthusiasts and players alike.

Afrobeat Star Davido Seeks Joint Custody of Daughter Imade in Nigerian Court Battle with Sophia Momodu

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One of Africa’s music stars, David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, has initiated legal proceedings against Sophia Momodu, the mother of his first child, Imade. The custody battle, filed at the Lagos State High Court in Nigeria, seeks joint custody of their eight-year-old daughter.

Davido’s legal team, including Dr. Olaniyi Arije and Okey Barrah, filed the suit, marked LD/1587PMC/2024 and dated April 17, 2024. The singer is requesting “an order granting joint custody of Miss Imade Adeleke to the applicant” or, alternatively, “an order granting to the applicant unfettered and unrestricted access to Miss Imade.”

Davido, his estranged baby mama, and daughter.

In a 44-paragraph affidavit, Davido detailed his financial contributions to Imade’s upbringing, including payment of school fees, rent for Momodu’s apartment, and the provision of vehicles for transportation. The singer claims to have offered Momodu a ₦200 million apartment in a gated community in Victoria Island, Lagos, which she allegedly declined.

Davido also states that he provided two SUVs—a Range Rover and a Highlander—along with ₦5.8 million for vehicle repairs. He further alleges that he made commitments for living expenses, nanny fees, medical care, insurance, and international travel costs for Imade.

Davido, his estranged baby mama, and daughter.

Despite these efforts, Davido claims Momodu has made “outlandish and utopian demands,” including a request for $19,600 annually for nanny services. The singer expresses frustration, stating that Momodu “has continued to show me unwarranted cruelty, inflicting so much pain on me.”

Davido, his estranged baby mama, and daughter.

This legal action marks a new chapter in the ongoing tensions between Davido and Momodu. In 2021, Momodu publicly expressed her distress over Imade bearing Davido’s surname instead of hers, highlighting the complex dynamics of their co-parenting relationship.

Davido, his estranged baby mama, and daughter.

As this high-profile case unfolds, it sheds light on the challenges of co-parenting in the public eye and the intersection of celebrity status with personal family matters in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

The outcome of this custody battle could have significant implications not only for Davido and Momodu but also for similar cases involving high-profile individuals in Nigeria.

Four Members of Britain’s Richest Family Get Jail Terms for Exploiting Servants

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A Swiss court has sentenced four members of Britain’s wealthiest family, the Hindujas, to jail terms for exploiting Indian domestic staff at their Geneva mansion. The verdict, delivered on Friday, has sent ripples through the business and legal worlds.

The court handed four-year sentences to Prakash Hinduja and his wife Kamal, and four-year terms to their son Ajay and his wife Namrata. Estimates place the family’s fortune at a staggering 37 billion pounds ($47 billion), but they were not present in court for the ruling.

Prakash Hinduja and his wife Kamal, and four-year terms to their son Ajay and his wife Namrata were sentenced.

Despite their acquittal on human trafficking charges, the Hindujas faced conviction on other counts pertaining to their treatment of their domestic staff. The case centered around the family’s practice of bringing servants from India to work in their Swiss residence.

Prosecutors argued that the Hindujas severely underpaid their staff, offering monthly salaries between 220 and 400 Swiss francs ($250–450), far below Swiss living wage standards. Moreover, they allegedly restricted the employees’ freedom to leave the house and confiscated their passports upon their arrival in Switzerland.

Prakash Hinduja and his wife Kamal, and four-year terms to their son Ajay and his wife Namrata.

Geneva prosecutor Yves Bertossa, who had sought even longer sentences, accused the family of exploiting the power imbalance between wealthy employers and vulnerable employees. “They’re profiting from the misery of the world,” Bertossa stated in his closing address.

The defense team for the Hindujas vehemently denied these allegations, arguing that the employees received ample benefits and were not kept in isolation. Lawyer Nicolas Jeandin insisted, “We are not dealing with mistreated slaves,” while his colleague Robert Assael claimed the staff “were grateful to the Hindujas for offering them a better life.”

Ajay and his wife Namrata

Despite reaching a confidential out-of-court settlement with the three employees who made the initial accusations, prosecutors decided to pursue the case due to the gravity of the charges. This decision highlights the Swiss justice system’s commitment to addressing labor exploitation, even when involving high-profile individuals.

The case has sparked a broader discussion about the treatment of domestic workers in wealthy households and the responsibilities of employers. It also raises questions about the legal and ethical implications of bringing staff from developing countries to work in more affluent nations.

Prakash Hinduja (left) has been found guilty of exploiting workers and providing unauthorised employment – AJIT KUMAR/AP

As the Hinduja family faces these unprecedented legal consequences, the verdict serves as a stark reminder that even the world’s wealthiest are not above the law when it comes to fair labor practices and human rights.

The family’s legal team is expected to appeal the decision, potentially leading to a protracted legal battle that could have far-reaching implications for similar cases in the future.

Punchng.com

France and Netherlands Play to Goalless Draw in Euro 2024 Clash; VAR Denies Dutch Victory

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In a tense Euro 2024 group-stage encounter, France and the Netherlands played out a 0-0 draw in Leipzig, with controversy surrounding a disallowed Dutch goal. The match, notable for the absence of French star Kylian Mbappé from the starting lineup, saw both sides create chances but ultimately fail to break the deadlock.

The game’s most contentious moment came midway through the second half when the Netherlands’ Xavi Simons thought he had given his team the lead. Despite Simons’ powerful shot from the edge of the box, the VAR review chalked the goal off. The decision centered on Denzel Dumfries’ positioning, with officials ruling he was too close to French goalkeeper Mike Maignan, obstructing his view as the ball hit the net.

Despite seeing less of the ball, the Netherlands created several promising opportunities on the counterattack. Jeremie Frimpong tested Maignan with a well-struck effort in the first half, while Cody Gakpo also came close to breaking the deadlock.

With Mbappé confined to the bench due to an injury, France struggled to capitalize on their possession advantage. Antoine Griezmann, usually reliable in front of goal, had an uncharacteristically poor night, squandering two clear-cut chances in the penalty area.

The match highlighted the resurgence of N’Golo Kante, who showcased his creative prowess with a series of elegant passes into dangerous areas. Kante’s performance suggested a return to form following injury-plagued seasons and his recent move to Saudi Arabia.

However, his teammates didn’t always match Kante’s excellence. Adrien Rabiot missed a late opportunity to set up a winner, failing to find Kingsley Coman with a cross in a promising position.

This goalless draw, the first of Euro 2024, has significant implications for Group D. While France and the Netherlands remain in strong positions to qualify, the result confirms Poland as the first team eliminated from the tournament.

As the competition progresses, questions will arise about France’s attacking prowess without Mbappé in the starting lineup. For the Netherlands, the disallowed goal will undoubtedly be a talking point, but their solid defensive display and counterattacking threat will encourage the matches ahead.

With both teams still in contention, the final group stage matches will be crucial in determining the outcome of Group D and the path forward in Euro 2024 for these football powerhouses.