Latest Sports News – January 23, 2025".

 

Football (Soccer)

Controversial Officiating in the Championship

In a recent Championship match between Sunderland and Derby, Sunderland was controversially denied a second goal. Wilson Isidor's effort was initially awarded by referee Sam Allison but later overruled, despite the absence of VAR. Replays suggested no offside or foul, leading to confusion among players, pundits, and fans. Sky Sports pundit Clinton Morrison expressed frustration over the decision. Despite the controversy, Sunderland secured a 1-0 victory, moving them to third place in the Championship table.

The Sun

Golf

Justin Thomas Advocates for Enhanced Fan Engagement

PGA Tour player Justin Thomas has urged fellow golfers to collaborate with broadcast partners to improve television coverage. In an unprecedented memo, Thomas proposed initiatives such as pre- and mid-round interviews and players wearing microphones during rounds. This effort aims to address a 19% drop in last year's final-round viewership and attract a younger audience. Thomas's call to action follows his successful debut in the TGL, an innovative indoor simulator golf league designed to expand golf's audience.

talkSPORT

College Football

Ohio State Tops College Football Valuations

Ohio State has emerged as the most valuable program in college football, valued at $1.96 billion, according to an analysis by Ryan Brewer, an associate professor of finance at Indiana University Columbus. This valuation surpasses other top programs like Texas ($1.9 billion) and Michigan ($1.66 billion). The study evaluates teams' finances similarly to professional franchises, considering metrics such as revenue, growth, cash flow, and sustainability. The financial landscape of college sports is shifting, with schools now permitted to pay players directly, potentially leading to tighter budgets in other areas.

WSJ

Olympic Sports

University of Missouri's Recent Performances

The University of Missouri's Olympic sports teams have had notable performances recently. In gymnastics, Helen Hu earned her first perfect 10 and her third career SEC Specialist of the Week honor, despite a challenging meet against top-ranked Oklahoma. The women's basketball team is still seeking its first SEC win after losses to Oklahoma and Auburn. The softball team received preseason rankings and individual player accolades, including mentions for sophomore Emma Hay and junior pitcher Cierra Harrison. The swimming and diving teams had a dominant senior weekend, particularly for the women's team. Track and field saw stellar performances, including Kristi Perez-Snyman tying a program high jump record. The wrestling team secured its second win of the season against Utah Valley.