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Wings rookie Azzi Fudd sets dubious WNBA record with lowest-scoring debut by top pick

Sat, 09 May 2026 22:12:25 -0400

The highly anticipated 30th WNBA season tipped off Friday with three games, including the expansion Toronto Tempo’s first-ever contest.

The action continued Saturday with a full slate, including Caitlin Clark’s return after an injury-riddled sophomore season.

Clark and the Indiana Fever hosted the Dallas Wings on Saturday afternoon in a matchup featuring the four most recent No. 1 overall picks. The Wings outlasted the Fever 107-104, but the game was defined by Azzi Fudd’s — the most recent top pick — underwhelming debut.

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Fudd played 18 minutes off the bench, scoring three points — the lowest ever by a No. 1 overall pick in a WNBA debut.

Wings coach Jose Fernandez addressed Fudd’s performance after the game, encouraging the rookie to, "Keep doing what she’s doing, it’s her first year in the league. We got five really talented backcourt players."

EX-WNBA STAR CRITICAL OF SKY ROOKIE HAILEY VAN LITH, BELIEVES POPULARITY PLAYED ROLE IN DRAFT SELECTION

In addition to Fudd, Dallas’ backcourt features last year’s top draft pick Paige Bueckers, last season’s No. 12 overall pick Aziaha James, four-time All-Star Arike Ogunbowale and starting guard Odyssey Sims.

Until Saturday, Kelsey Plum held the record for the lowest-scoring debut by a No. 1 pick. Selected first overall by the then-San Antonio Stars in 2017, she scored just four points in her debut. The Stars relocated to Las Vegas in 2018 and was subsequently rebranded as the Aces.

Despite the slow start to her first season in the league, Plum ended the year with All-Rookie team honors. In the years since, she's been named to four All-Star teams and won two championships with the Aces.

The Wings’ decision to take Fudd with the No. 1 overall pick drew controversy, raising questions about whether Bueckers’ personal relationship with her influenced the selection. Late last month, Bueckers said last month it did not.

"Azzi Fudd was the No. 1 draft pick because she earned it, and it had nothing to do with me and everything to do with who she is as a human being, who she is as a basketball player," Bueckers said, according to ESPN.

Neither Bueckers nor Fudd has publicly updated their relationship status since the April draft.

"Quite frankly, I believe me and Azzi’s personal relationship is nobody’s business but our own," Bueckers also said in April. "And what we choose to share is completely up to us."

Next up, the Wings play their home opener on Tuesday when they host the Atlanta Dream.

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Harris accuses Trump allies of trying to ‘rig’ 2026 midterms after Virginia court tosses redistricting measure

Sat, 09 May 2026 22:11:38 -0400

Former Vice President Kamala Harris accused President Donald Trump and Republicans of trying to "rig the 2026 elections" after the Virginia Supreme Court invalidated a voter-approved redistricting referendum, a ruling she said would "give a boost" to that effort.

"Today, the Virginia Supreme Court ignored the will of the people and overturned those democratically chosen maps," Harris wrote on X on May 8.

"This ruling gives a boost to Donald Trump's effort to rig the 2026 elections and the Republicans' long game to attack voting rights," she added.

The ruling marked a significant victory for Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterms and escalated an already intensifying national battle over redistricting and control of Congress.

VIRGINIA SUPREME COURT RULES ON NEW CONGRESSIONAL MAP

"We hold that the legislative process employed to advance this proposal violated Article XII, Section 1 of the Constitution of Virginia," the state’s high court said in its decision. "This constitutional violation incurably taints the resulting referendum vote and nullifies its legal efficacy."

The measure, which passed by a narrow 51% to 49% margin, would have temporarily shifted redistricting authority from Virginia’s nonpartisan commission to the Democrat-controlled legislature through 2030 and was expected to yield a 10-1 Democratic advantage in the state’s congressional delegation.

Trump praised the decision in a post on Truth Social, calling it a "Huge win for the Republican Party, and America, in Virginia."

'JUSTICE': CELEBRATION, MOCKERY ERUPT AFTER SPANBERGER 'GERRYMANDER' IS BLOWN UP IN BLOCKBUSTER DECISION

"The Virginia Supreme Court has just struck down the Democrats’ horrible gerrymander," he wrote.

Democrats sharply criticized the ruling. Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin said "a group of unelected judges on the Virginia Supreme Court chose to put partisan politics over the will of the people."

Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones also pushed back, saying the decision "silences the voices of the millions of Virginians who cast their ballots" and that his office is evaluating "every legal pathway forward."

ERIC HOLDER ACCUSES GOP OF 'STEALING SEATS' WHILE DEFENDING 'FAIR' DEMOCRATIC REDISTRICTING PUSH

Harris echoed that sentiment in her post, writing, "We are rightfully outraged, but we will not give up. We must continue our fight to restore the power of the people."

Her comments come as she has stepped up attacks on Trump in recent appearances while facing renewed questions about her political future.

At a recent event in Las Vegas, Harris said, "For far too many people in our country, the American dream, is not real. And in fact, for many people in their lived experience, it's what they would consider an American myth."

KAMALA HARRIS' TRAVELS AND COMMENTS CLEARLY POINT TO 2028

She also declined to downplay Trump, saying, "I’m not going to dismiss him as being an idiot. He’s dangerous."

At the same time, top Democrats have been reluctant to weigh in on whether Harris should lead the party in 2028.

"I have no idea," Rep. Jim Clyburn, D-S.C., told Fox News Digital when asked about her future.

"I have no idea who's running, and we'll focus on 2028 after 2026," Rep. Dan Goldman, D-N.Y., said.

Rep. John Larson, D-Conn., said the decision ultimately rests with Harris but added he believes Democrats should have "a wide-open Democratic primary."

The Virginia ruling is the latest flashpoint in a broader redistricting fight as both parties position themselves ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Harris, for her part, signaled she intends to remain engaged.

"I firmly and strongly believe that when you feel powerless, you are powerless," Harris said. "And when you feel powerful, you are powerful. And we are powerful and we are powerful. And so let's just show ourselves, each other, our power around the midterms and every day."

Fox News Digital's Breanne Deppisch, Leo Briceno, Olivia Palombo, and Paul Steinhauser contributed to this reporting.

Man accused of threatening former Prince Andrew near Sandringham home pleads not guilty in court

Sat, 09 May 2026 22:05:51 -0400

A 39-year-old man pleaded not guilty on Friday to threatening former Prince Andrew near his new home on the royal family’s Sandringham estate.

Alex Jenkinson, 39, is accused of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behavior toward the former prince, whose royal titles were removed last year by King Charles III due to his connections to Jeffrey Epstein.

Jenkinson, who faces two counts, is accused of threatening Andrew on Wednesday and another man on Tuesday.

The former Duke of York is also expected to give evidence in the trial, which is set for July 29 at the Westminster Magistrates' Court.

EX-PRINCE ANDREW LEAVES ROYAL MANSION ‘IN DEAD OF NIGHT’ AFTER COMPROMISING EPSTEIN PHOTOS SURFACE: EXPERT

Andrew was allegedly yelled at by a masked man while walking his dogs near his home, the Daily Telegraph reported.

"Officers attended, and the man was arrested on suspicion of a public order offence and possession of an offensive weapon," the police statement said.

The incident comes three months after Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, as he is now known, was arrested, himself, on suspicion of misconduct in public office connected to his Epstein ties and his time as the U.K. trade envoy.

Andrew moved to Sandringham earlier this year after he was asked to vacate his home at the Royal Lodge in Windsor.

PRINCE ANDREW ACCUSER VIRGINIA GIUFFRE’S DEATH CEMENTS ROYAL’S RUIN, DEEPENS EPSTEIN’S ‘EVIL’ LEGACY: EXPERTS

Virginia Giuffre, Andrew’s main accuser, claimed that she was forced to have sex with the royal three times starting when she was 17 years old.

PRINCE WILLIAM SEES DISGRACED ANDREW AS 'A TROUBLED SOUL' BUT EPSTEIN FALLOUT LEAVES 'NO COMING BACK': AUTHOR

Andrew has denied all of the accusations against him, but settled with Giuffre in 2022 over her civil sexual assault lawsuit. She later died of suicide in 2025.

Jenkinson appeared in court remotely from King's Lynn Police Investigation Centre in Norfolk on Friday with his arm in a sling.

He did plead guilty to failing to provide specimen of blood while in custody.

Jenkinson was released on bail on the condition that he doesn’t enter the county of Norfolk, attempt any contact with Andrew, and he must stay 500 meters away from Sandringham, Buckingham Palace, Balmoral Castle, Windsor Castle and Highgrove.

Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Labour MP puts Cabinet 'on notice,' threatens to trigger leadership challenge against Starmer by Monday

Sat, 09 May 2026 22:02:37 -0400

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer could face a leadership challenge as soon as next week after his Labour Party suffered major losses in Thursday’s local elections.

Labour MP Catherine West told the BBC that if a Cabinet minister does not challenge Starmer by Monday, she will trigger a leadership contest herself.

West said she was putting the Cabinet "on notice."

"I’m putting people on notice — if I don’t hear by Monday morning of some leadership hopefuls, I will be asking everybody in the Parliamentary Labour Party to put a name against my name, because we need to get this ball rolling," she told the outlet.

TRUMP ‘RIGHT TO BE OUTRAGED’ BY EUROPE’S BETRAYAL ON IRAN, SAYS FORMER THATCHER ADVISOR

"But my preferred option is for the Cabinet to do a reshuffle within itself, where there’s plenty of talent and for Keir to be given a different role, which he might enjoy, perhaps an international role, and then for others to come to the fore, who can communicate the message, who are very able, so we can have minimum fuss," she continued.

West, a former junior Foreign Office minister, would need support from 20% of Labour MPs — or 81 members — to trigger a contest.

She said about 10 MPs are backing her effort and expressed confidence more would join, according to the report.

200,000 SMALL BOAT ARRIVALS LOOM AMID UK RAISING THREAT LEVEL TO ‘SEVERE’ FOLLOWING RECENT TERROR ATTACK

Labour suffered roughly 1,400 losses across the U.K. in this week’s elections, with Reform UK making significant gains, according to GB News.

Starmer accepted responsibility for the losses but resisted calls to resign, saying he was "not going to walk away and plunge the country into chaos."

Still, he has not explicitly ruled out a managed exit and is expected to address the situation on Monday.

ONLYFANS MODEL INTERRUPTS PLAY AT WORLD SNOOKER CHAMPIONSHIP IN BRITAIN

As of late Friday, 22 Labour MPs had publicly called for the prime minister to step down or set a timeline for his exit, the BBC reported.

West did not name a preferred replacement.

"I don't have a candidate," she said. "That's part of the problem."

"But I think there are several people who would like to do it, who have been planning for months, but I'm very surprised that none of them has popped up today to say 'I will do it'," she added.

Fox News Digital’s Robert Schmad contributed to this report.

Minnesota nonprofit accused of siphoning $6.5M to fund Vegas trips, luxury cars, private liquor store

Sat, 09 May 2026 21:19:42 -0400

A Minnesota "violence interruption" charity has collapsed after its leaders allegedly used $6.5 million worth of charitable funds to bankroll lavish lifestyles and a private liquor store.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison announced on Friday a civil lawsuit against nonprofit We Push for Peace and its former directors, Trahern Pollard and Jaclyn McGuigan.

The organization, which held lucrative contracts for community outreach and violence prevention, was driven into the ground by "rampant abuse" and blatant self-dealing, prosecutors allege.

According to the complaint, Pollard personally pocketed more than $6 million of the diverted charitable funds. Instead of helping the community, the charity's money allegedly fueled a life of luxury for Pollard, paying for trips to Las Vegas, luxury vehicles and massive shopping sprees at a Harley Davidson showroom and spa stores.

INSIDE MINNESOTA’S $1B FRAUD: FAKE OFFICES, PHONY FIRMS AND A SCANDAL HIDING IN PLAIN SIGHT

Pollard is also accused of using the nonprofit to pay off his child support, settle a personal tax bill with the IRS, and subsidize his private, for-profit businesses — including a used car dealership and liquor store.

McGuigan, who acted as the charity's treasurer, allegedly transferred a recurring $1,000 per week of nonprofit funds into her own personal account and stole thousands more in government grant funds that she claimed were for "administrative" expenses.

"Instead of helping the community, they helped themselves to millions of dollars that should have gone into the community," Ellison wrote in a statement.

MASSIVE MEDICAID FRAUD SCHEME PUTS MINNESOTA’S FEDERAL FUNDING AT RISK — AND FALLOUT COULD WIDEN

Prosecutors noted that when the City of Minneapolis requested the nonprofit's assistance during Operation Metro Surge, a major Homeland Security enforcement operation in Minnesota, the once-multimillion-dollar organization was "utterly incapable" of answering the call.

When state investigators began closing in, Pollard allegedly submitted false statements under the penalty of perjury, falsely claiming a child support payment was "nonprofit overhead" and that a $35,000 payout to his personal friends was "Chicago payroll."

To justify the missing millions, prosecutors claim Pollard quickly incorporated a fake "for-profit arm" of the charity just days after the Minnesota Attorney General's Office began asking questions.

He also allegedly set up another new, for-profit corporation called "Change Makers" to drain the nonprofit's remaining revenue and diverted lucrative community liaison contracts, including a deal with Whole Foods, away from the charity and straight into his newly formed private company, according to court documents.

Minor League pitcher throws down a wild NSFW celebration after catching soft line drive

Sat, 09 May 2026 20:55:05 -0400

I always thought that in sports, there were two kinds of celebrations. There are the ones you think about ahead of time, and there are the more spur-of-the-moment ones.

But, a minor league pitcher has taught me that there's another kind of celebration: the kind that is spur of the moment, but you probably should've thought about it ahead of time.

Especially when there are kids in the crowd... or people who just don't want to see some guy hump turf.

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The Iowa Cubs — no prizes for guessing who they're the Triple-A affiliate of — hosted the Cleveland Guardians-afiflated Columbus Clippers on Thursday, and during the game, things got, uh... interesting.

Cubs infielder Owen Miller was at the plate facing Columbus righty Pedro Avila.

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Miller took a swing at a 1-2 pitch and sent a low, soft line drive just to Avila's left, with the pitcher making an impressive grab.

It was a nice play and the third out of the inning, so how to celebrate?

Well, Avila had an idea...

Jeez. Throw on a little Barry White and get that turf a cigarette after that.

I mean, you always want to have a guy on your team who loves the sport, but maybe not quite like that.

Quietly, the best part was that the announcer said Avila was "entertaining the children in attendance with some gyrations."

Because that's what kids are big on. Gyrations.

But even the Columbus Clippers' social media was at a loss for words after that one.

You probably saw that in that post on X, the Iowa Cubs asked "y'all good?" after that celly.

Well, they're not even sure if they are.

It was a wild moment, and I'm pretty sure it's not one that Avila's Columbus Clippers teammates will let him live down anytime soon.

Alabama mother sentenced to life for hiring hitman to kill her child's father over custody dispute

Sat, 09 May 2026 20:41:43 -0400

An Alabama woman was sentenced to life in prison Friday after authorities said she hired a hitman to kill her child’s father in a custody dispute.

Jaclyn Skuce, 43, of Madison, was convicted of capital murder after hiring a man to kill the child’s father in order to prevent him from gaining custody or further visitation, the Morgan County District Attorney’s Office said.

The Hartselle Police Department was dispatched on July 24, 2020, to a residence for a welfare check after Anthony Larry Sheppard failed to appear in court for a scheduled custody hearing. His attorney had asked officers to check on him, investigators said.

Upon arrival, police discovered Sheppard’s storm door shattered and the main door ajar.

FORMER COLLEAGUES DETAIL CHP CAPTAIN’S SPIRAL BEFORE ALLEGED MURDER-FOR-HIRE PLOT AGAINST HUSBAND

Officers later found Sheppard dead with multiple gunshot wounds.

Investigators determined that Skuce hired Logan Delp to kill Sheppard in order to prevent him from gaining custody or further visitation with his child.

Prosecutors said Skuce used social media to hire the hitman, who lived in Hartselle, according to the Hartselle Enquirer. She allegedly offered to pay $30,000.

TEXAS INFLUENCER SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS IN PRISON FOR MURDER-FOR-HIRE PLOT

"There are never any winners in a case like this," Chief Assistant District Attorney Garrick Vickery said following the verdict. "This jury was incredibly thorough and took their time to make sure they made the right decision, both for Mr. Sheppard and for the defendant."

Vickery added, "We are glad that they convicted her for the choice she made to take Mr. Sheppard away from his family."

Skuce was found guilty of three counts of capital murder: murder for hire, murder of a witness, and murder committed by shooting into an occupied dwelling.

Four other defendants have been charged with capital murder in connection with Sheppard’s death.

Delp was convicted of capital murder in October 2025, the DA’s office said. Another defendant has pleaded guilty, and two others are awaiting trial.

Skuce will be imprisoned without the possibility of parole in the Alabama Department of Corrections.

Junior hockey team fined after scout compliments female reporter's appearance

Sat, 09 May 2026 20:15:28 -0400

A Canadian junior hockey team's pockets are thousands of dollars lighter after one of the team's scouts got into trouble during an interview at the league’s draft.

The problem? Telling a reporter she was good-looking.

...Okay, let's go through this one.

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The Vancouver Giants play in the Western Hockey League, one of the three leagues — along with the Ontario Hockey League and the Quebec Maritimes Junior Hockey League — that make up the Canadian Hockey League, the top tier of junior hockey in North America.

The WHL held its annual draft this week, and that's why 85-year-old scout Terry Bonner hopped on the league's draft stream to discuss their latest pick.

However, he wanted to talk about the woman working the desk.

"Well, thank you very much," Bonner said. "You're a good-looking girl."

TENNESSEE SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER CENSURED AFTER CALLING STUDENT ‘HOT’ AT MEETING

All right, I understand that it's 2026 and this is no bueno, even though that's about as benign as a comment like that gets. The anchor was there to do a job and was being as professional as can be, and that wasn't necessarily reciprocated.

But...

We need to give old guys a longer leash on stuff like this. I mean, that was kind of borderline to begin with, and then when you realize it came from an 85-year-old, we should just move on.

I'm not saying he was in the right, I'm saying let's not waste energy getting mad at an old guy for doing an old guy thing.

I think a quick, "Hey, Terry, pal, you can't tell women they're good-looking anymore... yeah, bud, I know it's a compliment, but that's how it is now," would've sufficed.

Nope.

Cue the fine and the groveling league apology.

"Accountability is a cornerstone value of our League – that includes both players and staff. In this instance, regardless of intent, the remarks are not reflective of the organization’s standards of respect and inclusion," WHL Commissioner Dan Near said in a statement after announcing the Giants had been fined $5,000 for conduct detrimental to the league.

Whoa. That's a little heavy-handed, no?

Well, lessons learned, I suppose.

Make sure your elderly scout knows modern social norms before appearing on a livestream... also explain to him what a livestream is.

Transgender athlete AB Hernandez dominates three jumping events at California postseason track meet

Sat, 09 May 2026 19:50:07 -0400

YORBA LINDA, Calif. — A California postseason track meet on Saturday opened with a "Save Girls’ Sports" rally outside the gates and ended in familiar fashion, as one athlete again separated from the field in the jumping events, highlighting growing concerns over competitive fairness in girls’ sports.

Saturday’s CIF Southern Section Division 3 preliminaries in Yorba Linda drew attention before competition began, with demonstrators protesting California’s policy allowing transgender athletes to compete in girls’ sports.

Inside, the focus turned to the jumping events, where biological male AB Hernandez, a senior from Jurupa Valley, competed against women and finished first across all three competitions with dominant performances.

RALLY ERUPTS AT CALIFORNIA GIRLS' TRACK MEET AMID TRANS FEUD BETWEEN WHITE HOUSE AND NEWSOM'S OFFICE

Hernandez, a trans multi-sport athlete (previously involved in girls' volleyball), won the Long Jump Division 3 Prelim and Triple Jump Division 3 Prelim by wide margins and tied for first in the High Jump Division 3 Prelim with Reese Hogan, an athlete with past ties to Hernandez.

The long jump result separated the field. Hernandez posted 20 feet, 4 1/4 inches. The next closest finishers reached 19 feet, 1 1/2 inches and 18 feet, 7 inches.

More than a foot separated first from second.

The triple jump underscored the disparity. Hernandez recorded 42 feet, 4 inches. The runners-up finished at 39 feet, 7 1/2 inches and 37 feet, 8 inches.

The growing attention around the issue was evident in the stands at Yorba Linda High School, which hosted the prelims.

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One grandparent in attendance, there to support Moorpark High School, pointed to how familiar the situation has become.

"It happened last year and I thought it’d be done, but it’s California," the grandparent said with a shrug.

Another parent, a father from Yucca Valley, voiced a general agreement with the concerns around trans athletes.

"I think they should have their own division. I just don’t like bullying one kid," he said.

The high jump brought past competitor Reese Hogan back into the fold.

Hernandez and Hogan both cleared 5 feet, 2 inches, finishing tied for first.

Hogan previously drew attention after stepping onto the first-place podium spot following an event Hernandez had won, a move championed by pro women’s sports advocates as a statement about who should hold that position.

On Saturday, the two athletes met again at the top of the standings, and the result was a tie.

Outside the venue, the earlier rally led by former NCAA athlete Sophia Lorey focused on fairness and competitive balance in girls’ sports.

In an individual sport, removed from any team dynamic, the results board made the fairness debate hard to ignore.

Hernandez’s marks told the story: a long jump of 20 feet, 4 1/4 inches, a triple jump of 42 feet, 4 inches, and a high jump tie at 5 feet, 2 inches.

Hernandez competed under rules California has allowed for more than a decade. Those rules remain at the center of a growing conflict between state officials and federal leaders over Title IX and women’s sports. That battle has now moved into the courts, with the Department of Justice suing California over its transgender athlete policies.

In response, Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office distanced the governor from the lawsuit, emphasizing he was not personally named while defending the state’s existing law.

Saturday’s prelims in Yorba Linda added more data to the growing push to keep biological males out of girls’ events.

The protest set the tone early, and by day’s end the argument had moved off the sidewalk and onto the results board, where the outcome carried real consequences.

Send us your thoughts: alejandro.avila@outkick.com / Follow along on X: @alejandroaveela

Trump warns college sports could be ‘lost forever’ as committee pushes changes, Congress urged to act

Sat, 09 May 2026 19:40:20 -0400

President Donald Trump is ramping up pressure on Congress to overhaul college sports, warning the system could be "lost forever" as a White House-backed committee pushes sweeping changes to rein in athlete pay, transfers and soaring costs.

The proposals include creating a task force to examine pooled media rights, limits on coaching salaries, rewritten eligibility rules and changes to the transfer portal, according to a draft document obtained by Yahoo Sports and reported by The Associated Press.

The push builds on a recent executive order from Trump, which described college athletics as an "out-of-control financial arms race" fueled by loosening rules around player compensation, transfers and eligibility — and urged federal action before the system destabilizes further.

The White House said the current model is "driving universities into debt," threatening women’s and Olympic sports and undermining student-athletes’ educational opportunities.

TRUMP SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER TO REGULATE THE BUSINESS OF COLLEGE SPORTS

"Further delay is not an option given what is at stake," the order states, citing roughly 500,000 annual educational, athletic and leadership opportunities and nearly $4 billion in scholarships.

Trump has also raised alarms about the direction of college sports, saying during a White House roundtable last month that "crazy things are happening" as players stay in school longer and earn more through NIL deals, according to previous Fox News Digital reporting.

The draft proposal calls on Congress to quickly pass legislation creating a task force with an antitrust exemption and authority to override individual state laws, a major priority for NCAA and college sports leaders seeking national standards.

I PLAYED DIVISION1 VOLLEYBALL — NIL CHAOS IS OUT OF CONTROL. THE SCORE ACT WILL SAVE SPORTS

Among the most divisive ideas is pooling media rights across conferences, a move opposed by the Southeastern Conference and Big Ten but backed by a group led by Texas Tech regent Cody Campbell, who has argued it could add billions in value, according to AP.

The draft also calls for rules targeting "salary-cap circumvention," an apparent reference to schools using third-party NIL deals to get around current limits on direct payments to athletes.

That issue is already at the center of an arbitration case brought by Nebraska football players whose NIL deals were rejected by the College Sports Commission, which reviews third-party contracts.

NCAA SETTLEMENT CHAOS: NEW LEGAL MOVE COULD TRIGGER MASSIVE INCREASE IN NIL SPENDING

Trump’s executive order also directs agencies that contract with or give grants to higher education institutions to evaluate certain violations of college athletics rules, including eligibility limits, transfers, revenue sharing and "improper financial activities."

The order defines those activities to include fraudulent NIL schemes, use of federal funds for NIL or revenue-sharing payments and interference with contracts between student-athletes and other schools.

The White House also urged college athletics governing bodies to clarify rules before Aug. 1, including limits on eligibility, transfer rules, medical care for athletes and protections for women’s and Olympic sports.

HOUSE VOTE ON NIL REGULATION ACT CANCELED DESPITE TRUMP'S BACKING AS SOME REPUBLICANS STILL NOT ON BOARD

Congress has been stalled for more than a year on legislation codifying parts of the House settlement that put revenue-sharing into place, according to AP.

The draft committee document calls for lawmakers to act before Congress leaves for its traditional August recess.

Without a national solution, the administration has warned, the financial pressure created by football and basketball could force schools to cut other sports or reshape college athletics entirely.

The White House did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Fox News Digital's Ryan Morik contributed to this reporting.

The Associated Press contributed to this reporting.

Kate Hudson turns heads in bold yellow dress with revealing cutouts while on the red carpet

Sat, 09 May 2026 19:34:14 -0400

Kate Hudson stunned in a daring gown while on a recent red carpet.

While walking the red carpet at the Los Angeles premiere of Martin Short's Netflix documentary, "Marty, Life is Short," the 47-year-old actress risked a wardrobe malfunction in a bold yellow dress.

The actress wore a floor-length suede sleeveless column gown by Italian designer Tod, which featured deep cutouts on either side, which give a glimpse of her toned abs and back muscles, as well as a little bit of side-boob when looked at from the side.

She posted pictures from the event on her Instagram, captioning the post, "What a documentary! Celebrating the one and only Marty Short 🧡."

ARIANA GRANDE, KATE HUDSON SHINE ON RED CARPET: PHOTOS

Fans quickly took to the comments section to let Hudson know they approved of her look, with one writing, "Kate Hudson you are always the best dressed ❤️."

"Beautiful stunning gorgeous talented the list goes on and on ❤️," another fan wrote. A third added, "Giving Andy Anderson vibes ✨💛 Yellow is your color 😍," referencing her iconic character from the movie, "How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days."

Hudson is currently starring in season two of the hit Netflix show, "Running Point," in which she plays Isla Gordon, the president of the fictional basketball team, the Los Angeles Waves.

When speaking with Fox News Digital in April, Hudson explained she is able to relate to her character, noting that "when I put my mind to something, I roll my sleeves up, I want to get it done, and I want to do it right."

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"I think Isla really wants to get it right, but her drive and her ambition come from a more, I think, a place where she loves what she does, which I can relate to, but there's also a dysfunctional side of it, which is what makes the comedy so fun," Hudson began.

"But I wouldn't say that I have calculated ambition. I love the arts and I wanna tell good stories and I want to do things that move me and that feel like I can do and that could be a great thing to be able to do if I get that opportunity," she continued. "But I don't have this like, driving ambition to win, and Isla does."

Hudson is famously one of Hollywood's most successful nepo-babies, as she was raised by her mother, Academy Award-winning actress, Goldie Hawn, and Hawn's longtime partner, actor Kurt Russell.

She herself has three children: Ryder, who she shares with Chris Robinson; Bingham, who she shares with Matt Bellamy; and Rani Rose, who she shares with Danny Fujikawa.

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When speaking with Fox News Digital, she shared that if her children told her their drive came from their desire to achieve "fame and success, then it's something that would feel like a failure of mine."

"So, for me, the most important thing for me with my kids is that they feel self-possessed, that they understand what really drives purpose, and what does a purposeful life look like for them, and where do they hold their values, right? What are those values and why?"

Duffys fire back after Pete Buttigieg, husband attack new road trip TV series: 'Radical, miserable left'

Sat, 09 May 2026 19:30:58 -0400

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and his wife, "Fox & Friends" co-host Rachel Campos-Duffy, fired back on Friday after former Sec. Pete Buttigieg and his husband launched a barrage of attacks against the Duffys' upcoming "Great American Road Trip" reality TV series.

The feud ignited Friday after the couple announced the new show on "Fox & Friends." Chasten Glezman Buttigieg quickly took to X to bash the project, accusing the Duffys of taking a "multi-month, taxpayer-funded family road trip" while gas and grocery prices soar due to "Trump's war of choice."

He went on to call the couple "unfocused, unserious, and out of touch," and aired old grievances about the Duffys' past criticism of Pete Buttigieg working from his son's ICU bedside.

DUFFY BLASTS BUTTIGIEG, ACCUSING BIDEN-ERA OFFICIAL OF 'MISMANAGEMENT': 'MAYOR PETE FAILED FOR FOUR YEARS...'

Pete Buttigieg joined in on the attack on X, adding, "I love a good road trip, but this is brutally out of touch: a Trump Cabinet member making a documentary about himself while regular families can’t afford road trips anymore, because Trump and his war put gas prices through the roof."

Rachel Campos-Duffy replied to Chasten Buttigieg's post, telling him to "stand down," and clarifying the production was funded entirely by a nonprofit, The Great American Road Trip, Inc.

She said her family participated for free to celebrate America's 250th birthday and noted the series was filmed in short one- and two-day stops over seven months.

SEC SEAN DUFFY: 'ONE, BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL' IS DOWN PAYMENT ON A NEW, MUCH-NEEDED AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEM

"You and I both know that my husband has done more in one year to transform the DOT and ATC than your husband did in over 4 years on the job," Campos-Duffy said.

Sean Duffy waited until Saturday to deliver a blistering response, claiming the "radical, miserable left" hates the series because it is "too wholesome," "too patriotic" and "too joyful."

He confirmed career ethics and budget officials at the Department of Transportation fully reviewed and cleared his participation in accordance with federal rules, emphasized zero taxpayer dollars were used, and said filming took place strictly during short windows like weekends and his children's spring break.

DOT CRACKS DOWN ON THOUSANDS OF ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT TRUCKERS, AS AGENCY LOOKS TO HOLIDAY TRAVEL: DUFFY

He also defended his fast-paced record at the DOT, highlighting modernized air traffic control, the removal of illegal truck drivers and a 20% annual increase in hiring controllers compared to his predecessor.

Following the Duffys' corrections, Chasten Buttigieg pivoted his line of attack, reposting multiple creators on X Saturday who took aim at the road trip's corporate sponsors, which include DOT-regulated entities like Boeing, United Airlines, Toyota and Shell.

The reposted critics alleged a conflict of interest, claiming the companies funded an "extended vacation" for the secretary. The posts also attempted to tie the sponsorships to claims that Duffy has halted safety standards, pardoned airlines that violated consumer laws, and hasn't fined a single airline in over a year.

Despite the political mudslinging and moving goalposts from critics, the Duffys continue encouraging families to ignore the "haters" and explore America's national parks and monuments ahead of the nation's 250th birthday.

"Our message is really simple: to love America is to see America," Sec. Duffy said. "So put the phone down, hit the open road, and rediscover what makes America great."

New York City's declining public school enrollment projected to lose over 150K more as population declines

Sat, 09 May 2026 19:00:22 -0400

New York City’s public schools are projected to drop, mirroring the downward trend of its overall population since last year.

According to a "Statistical Forecasting" prepared for the New York City School Construction Authority, New York City is projected to lose thousands of students in the 2034-35 school year.

"Enrollment is projected to be 721,251 in 2034-35, which would be a decline of 153,000 students from the 2024-25 enrollment," the outlet reported.

NYC BUSINESS OWNER KICKSTARTS MILLION DOLLAR CAMPAIGN TO COMBAT MAMDANI-DRIVEN BUSINESS EXODUS

"Over the next ten years, enrollments are projected to decline in each of the five boroughs. Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx are projected to have the largest declines in the next ten years, losing 45,000, 43,000, and 35,000 students, respectively," it added.

The projected shortfall was attributed to continuing falling birthrates, an exodus of residents, and an aging population. "Statistical Forecasting was retained by the New York City School Construction Authority ("SCA") to perform enrollment projections for the New York City Public Schools for the ten-year period beginning with the 2025-26 school year and ending in 2034-35," the document states.

This reflects broader enrollment declines in major cities across the country as they struggle to retain students due to parents seeking alternative options outside their neighborhood public schools.

The New York Times reported on Friday that the number of kindergarten through 12th grade public school students in the U.S. has declined in 30 states since the mid-2010s.

New York City public schools lost 22,000 students this year from last year’s 906,248 students. According to preliminary Department of Education data, a total of 884,400 students were enrolled in the city’s traditional public schools. NYC had more than 1,002,000 students enrolled at the start of the 2019-2020 school year, meaning it has since lost more than 117,000.

AMERICANS CONTINUE VOTING WITH THEIR FEET AS HIGH-TAX CITIES STRUGGLE TO RECOVER

A spokesperson for NYC public schools told Fox News Digital in January that enrollment can shift for many reasons.

"New York City Public Schools is committed to providing a world-class education for all our students," spokesperson for NYC Public Schools, Isla Gething, told Fox News Digital.

"Enrollment can shift for many reasons, and these are trends we monitor closely. Our focus remains on delivering strong academic programs and safe learning environments in every classroom. We continue to engage the whole school community as we plan for the future of our schools with a long term focus on stability, equity, and providing an excellent education regardless of enrollment fluctuations."

The study came while New York City is facing a renewed exodus.

NEW YORK CITY LOST RESIDENTS ACROSS ALL INCOME LEVELS LAST YEAR, STUDY FINDS

According to a Citizens Budget Commission (CBC) study released last month, the Big Apple lost more residents than it gained last year. The report found that New York City lost approximately 114,000 more domestic residents to other U.S. cities than it gained in 2025, reversing two years of marginal growth.

The CBC reported that the decline is underscored by residents seeking a "value proposition" in other places with aims to find lower costs of living, taxes, and overall quality of life.

NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani and the city's education department did not respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.

Single workout cuts cravings, offering new hope for smokers trying to quit

Sat, 09 May 2026 18:52:36 -0400

If you’re trying to quit smoking, try a brisk walk or bike ride to curb your craving for a cigarette.

Researchers found that just one workout can reduce the urge to light up. But the type of exercise you do and how you do it makes a big difference.

High-intensity, aerobic exercise is most effective at reducing people’s cigarette cravings, a review of 59 randomized controlled trials involving more than 9,000 adults found.

FITNESS EXPERT REVEALS SIMPLE RULE TO GET IN SHAPE WITHOUT DREADING THE GYM: 'JUST MOVE'

"Single-bout exercise reduced acute cravings immediately and up to 30 minutes post-exercise, but not longer-term cravings," the authors of the study, published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science, reported.

The research team highlighted other key findings from their study of "exercise-based interventions for smoking cessation."

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Exercise training made people between 15% and 21% more likely to abstain from smoking than those who didn’t exercise, the authors found.

Regular exercise also caused smokers to cut back by an average of two cigarettes per day.

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In addition to being a free and accessible method for reducing smoking, exercise is also effective at reducing anxiety and stress, which drive many people to smoke.

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The authors suggest that because exercise boosts feel-good hormones, such as dopamine, and reduces the stress hormone cortisol, smokers who work out feel less inclined to use nicotine as a brain reward.

Exercise should be integrated into other smoking cessation programs to enhance quit success, the authors concluded.

They also noted that none of the trials addressed vaping and recommended that future research target the use of electronic cigarettes.

Ranking the ten best Billy Joel songs of all time in honor of The Piano Man's 77th birthday

Sat, 09 May 2026 18:47:25 -0400

Today is my son's second birthday, which is pretty cool. But, more importantly, it is also The Piano Man himself, Billy Joel's 77th birthday (that was a joke, honey).

In all seriousness, I want to wish a happy birthday to Mr. William Martin Joel, whose entire catalog has provided me the soundtrack to many a nighttime drive and mediocre spaghetti meal cooked in the comfort of my own kitchen.

It's such an impressive catalog, in fact, that I decided to rank the 10 best songs the man has ever written.

Obviously, this is a subjective ranking, and I trust that most of you angry New Yorkers will be burning the comments section down with pleas for "Piano Man," which, spoiler alert, will not be making the list.

BRIGITTE BARDOT’S DEATH SHRINKS BILLY JOEL’S ‘WE DIDN’T START THE FIRE’ LIST TO JUST 3 LIVING NAMES

Everybody pissed off already? Good. Let's rank!

10. "Pressure" — The Nylon Curtain

Many fans assume that Billy Joel hit a creative and commercial lull in the early to mid 1980s after Glass Houses, but there's still plenty of fun to be had on The Nylon Curtain, and "Pressure" is one track that delivers.

Joel is as cynical and sneering as ever, spitting lines like "But you will come to a place/Where the only thing you feel/Are loaded guns in your face/And you'll have to deal with/Pressure."

BILLY JOEL FIRES BACK AT PERSISTENT DUI RUMORS THAT HAVE PLAGUED HIS REPUTATION FOR YEARS

The song is a reflection of the pressure on Joel to follow up on his success in the late 70s, and the prodding synthesizer riff adds to the claustrophobic nature of the tune.

A hidden gem if there ever was one.

9. "All For Leyna" — Glass Houses

Speaking of hidden gems, "All For Leyna" is another B-side off of one of Billy Joel's most critically and commercially successful albums, Glass Houses.

BILLY JOEL OPENS UP ABOUT AFFAIR THAT LED TO TWO SUICIDE ATTEMPTS

It deals with the almost paranoid obsession Joel feels for a girl (presumably named "Leyna") and once again, the instrumentation matches the vibe of the lyrics.

"All For Leyna" features an ear-worm of an opening synth riff that sets the tone for the obsessive and oppressive tune, and Joel captures the essence of young heartbreak to perfection.

It might be one of the catchiest songs about forlornness you'll ever hear.

8. "The Stranger" — The Stranger

Joel really shows off his piano (and whistling) chops on this title track, as the first and last minute or so of this tune is dedicated to a smokey stroll down the ivory keys before busting into a full on rock song.

One thing Joel was very underrated at in his heyday was writing a good, guitar-driven rocker, and "The Stranger" is a great mid-tempo track with a great guitar riff attached to it.

The Stranger as an album was a massive commercial windfall for Joel, but the title track is often overlooked when it comes to the pantheon of his songs, and that is a crying shame.

7. "Allentown" — The Nylon Curtain

I bet you didn't think you'd see not one, but two songs off of Nylon Curtain, did you?

"Allentown" is Billy Joel's ode to the Pennsylvania coal mining and steel factory scene, which was on the way out by the album's release in 1982.

For as much as Joel gets chided for being "just a lounge singer who made it big," he deals with some pretty heavy subject matter, and an entire generation's dreams going up in smoke is pretty dark, though he does a great job of making it more palatable and masking it behind a real toe-tapper.

The instrumentation in this one is, as usual, very on point, and while some might think the addition of the factory horn and banging steel press was a little too "on-the-nose," I think it complements the track perfectly.

6. "Big Shot" — 52nd Street

Another Billy Joel hard rocker, "Big Shot" is about as guitar-centric as the Piano Man ever got, and he hits all the right notes in it.

52nd Street may be an ode to the jazz legends of Manhattan that came before him, but this one eschews that tribute for a good old-fashioned guitar banger.

Joel delivers some all-time classic lyrics such as "you had the Dom Perignon in your hand and the spoon up your nose," and "gonna cry in your car, baby don't come bitchin' to me," in this tale of a woman biting off more than she could chew.

This is late '70s rock at its finest.

5. "Sleeping With The Television On" — Glass Houses

Much like "Big Shot," "Sleeping With The Television On" relies on a slashing guitar riff, but does so in a more quiet, understated fashion than its direct predecessor on this list.

The lyrics are pretty straightforward, dealing with a picky woman who turns down every guy who makes a move on her and goes home to fall asleep "with the television."

Joel gives every shy guy their anthem, with the line "I really wish I was less of a thinking man/and more a fool who's not afraid of rejection" pretty much summing up my "dating" life in college.

Regardless, it's a great B-side off of an album chock-full of hits, and is worth a listen the next time you give Glass Houses a run.

4. "Movin' Out (Anthony's Song)" — The Stranger

The vibe of this song is hard to describe, but if I had to sum it up in just a short, succinct sentence it would be this: Every time I'm eating chicken parm alone in my living room (which isn't often enough for my liking), "Movin' Out" is playing from my phone.

Nothing captures the vibe of late '70s New York quite like this tune (though there is one a little later on the list that beats this puppy in that category).

The bassline to this tune has been stuck in my head probably since 2011 and it's not leaving anytime soon, and the motorcycle sounds during the outro are just the touch of class this baby needed to bring it all home.

It's the little details that set Billy apart from his peers.

3. "You May Be Right" — Glass Houses

If ever there were a great, radio-ready Billy Joel song, this is it.

It's one of Joel's most recognizable songs, and for good reason.

The guitar riff and chorus, respectively, are some of the catchiest in the man's extensive catalog, which is saying a lot.

The harmonic honking in the outro deserves special mention, and the lyrics are some of Joel's finest ("I walked through Bedford-Stuy alone/Even rode my motorcycle in the rain").

It's hard to say too much about this one, it's just a classic Billy Joel pop song. Nothing more, nothing less.

2. "Sometimes A Fantasy" — Glass Houses

While "You May Be Right" is the more recognizable song, "Sometimes A Fantasy" is the better song in every conceivable manner.

The guitar riff is such a delicious slice of early '80s pop-rock mastery, the lyrics are a hilarious double-entendre minefield, and the chorus is more infectious than influenza.

The call-and-response in said chorus is worth the price of admission alone, as you'll be singing "It's just a fantasy (whoa oh)/It's not the real thing (whoa oh)" until the day you die.

Bonus points if you look up the 1987 Moscow performance of this song, where Joel flips out on his stage crew and ad libs his angry epithets in between some of the lyrics.

He's a true professional, even when he's irate!

1. "New York State of Mind" — Turnstiles

If I had to pick one song to capture the entire essence of Billy Joel, it would be "New York State of Mind."

It's an autobiographical and introspective look from Joel himself about how he moved to California, grew "out of touch with the rhythm and blues," then moved back to the Empire State to reconnect with his roots.

The lyrics evoke a longing for a city I've only visited once (and hated), showing Joel's mastery of storytelling and the piano work in this one is second to none.

Joel is obviously known as "The Piano Man," and the intro to "New York State of Mind" should be at the top of his resume.

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It absolutely sets a mood of longing for a hometown and a routine, and it makes this one the song for a late-night slow drive through a big city.

Simply put, "New York State of Mind" is a perfect song, and I don't say that lightly.

It's my favorite Billy Joel song and might be one of my favorite songs of all time. So, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to pop on my Billy Joel Spotify playlist and celebrate two of my favorite dudes' birthdays.

Honorable Mention: "Just The Way You Are," "Only The Good Die Young," "My Life," "Uptown Girl," "It's Still Rock and Roll to Me"

Caitlin Clark says 'I honestly could have probably got a couple more calls' in Fever's season opener

Sat, 09 May 2026 18:28:01 -0400

Caitlin Clark made her return from injury to the WNBA on Saturday, but had to settle for a loss.

Clark's Indiana Fever fell 107-104 to the Dallas Wings in their season opener, as Clark missed two late shots that could have tied the game.

After the game, Clark appeared to suggest certain fouls were not called on her throughout the game.

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"I think especially if they're going to call it the way they're going to call it this year, I think I honestly could have probably got a couple more calls on a few of them, but that's okay," Clark said to reporters after the game when asked about plays when she drove to the basket on Saturday.

Whether officials are calling enough fouls against Clark has been a point of controversy since she came into the WNBA in 2024, and many fans complained that Clark was frequently being targeted with hard contact by opposing players, and referees weren't doing enough to protect her.

Clark herself has made other comments seemingly directed at referees in the WNBA.

During the WNBA postseason in September, while Clark was injured, she said she was fined $200 for tweeting "Refs couldn’t stop us" after Indiana’s Game 2 win over Atlanta in the first round.

"Got fined $200 for this lol," she wrote on X, adding a series of crying laughter emojis. "BENCH MOB WILL BE EVEN MORE ROWDY TOMORROW LETS GOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

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Clark was previously seen getting into disagreements with referees during a game against the Connecticut Sun last July.

"Are you f----ing kidding me?" Clark appeared to say as Fever assistant Briann January dragged her back to the bench.

As officials continued to look at the replay, the ESPN broadcast showed Clark yelling over toward the officials again.

"That’s just rude. Grow up," she said. "Come here, come here. Unbelievable."

Her coach and teammates have made similar comments as well.

After a controversial no-call during a play involving Caitlin Clark last May against the New York Liberty, Fever head coach Stephanie White lambasted WNBA referees for their officiating.

"I thought she got fouled. I think it's pretty egregious what's been happening to us the last few games," White said of Clark. "The disrespect right now for our team has been pretty unbelievable. So, it's disappointing, you know, that it doesn't go both ways, or it hasn't gone both ways."

Fever star Sophie Cunningham also called out the way referees handle Clark to reporters last June, after a brawl against the Sun.

"During that, it was just part of the game. I think the refs had a lot to do with that. It was a build-up for a couple years now of them just not protecting the star player of the WNBA," Cunningham said. "At the end of the day, I'm going to protect my teammates. That's what I do."

Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

Nearly a dozen injured after possible boat explosion at popular Florida tourist destination

Sat, 09 May 2026 18:18:57 -0400

Nearly a dozen people were injured Saturday after a possible boat explosion at Haulover Sandbar, a popular tourist attraction in North Miami Beach, Florida.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue confirmed to Fox News Digital 11 victims were taken to the hospital for treatment, though the total number of injuries has not yet been released.

The victims' conditions are unknown, as of 5 p.m.

Fire officials sent more than 25 units to the scene just after 12:55 p.m. local time, including Fireboat 21, Ocean Rescue units, along with partner agencies including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard.

FIERY BOAT EXPLOSION IN FLORIDA MARINA LEAVES ONE DEAD, SEVERAL INJURED

Officials have not yet confirmed if the incident involved an explosion.

"As we’re in the midst of boating season, we want to remind our community to always prioritize safety while out on the water," fire officials told Fox News Digital. "Make sure your vessel is equipped with a working fire extinguisher and all required safety equipment. Before departure, perform a thorough safety check to ensure your boat is in good working condition and free of potential hazards.

"Taking a few extra precautions can help prevent emergencies and keep everyone safe."

The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office and FBI Miami did not immediately respond to additional inquiries from Fox News Digital.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

Katy Perry to headline 2026 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony as fans debate whether she's the right pick

Sat, 09 May 2026 18:04:21 -0400

Soccer fans are not happy after Katy Perry was announced as the headliner for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony.

The 41-year-old singer was announced as the headliner on Friday, May 8, and many in the soccer community had strong opinions on the choice. Pop Crave shared the announcement on their X account and the comments section featured a mixed bag of reactions.

Many were against the organization's decision to sign her as the headliner, with one commenter writing, "I honestly think they could've picked someone better."

"On behalf of the football community we don’t know Katy Perry," another added. A third wrote, "What songs will she be performing, this World Cup is proving to be a disaster!"

MEGAN RAPINOE TAKES ISSUE WITH US MEN'S SOCCER'S WORLD CUP CAMPAIGN SLOGAN

A fourth commenter chimed in adding, "she doesn’t have any current hits so what is she going to sing?? Roar?? Wide awake?? The one that got away? Last Friday night?"

Others came to her defense, citing her Super Bowl halftime show performance in 2015 as evidence that she will put on a great show.

"Yo Katy Perry headlines the World Cup opener at SoFi. I love that," one fan wrote. "She brings huge energy to the field. Will she drop Firework or Roar during the set? I need to see the full lineup now. This gets me pumped for June."

Another supported added, "Katy Perry headlining the 2026 World Cup opening at SoFi is huge. June 12 gonna be iconic," while a third wrote, "My goat she totally deserved it."

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Perry broke into mainstream fame in 2008 with her number one hit single, "I Kissed a Girl." She followed that up with her hit album, "Teenage Dream," in 2010, which included hits such as "California Gurls," "Teenage Dream," "Firework" and "E.T."

Her last album, "Smile," was released in 2020 and has released a few songs in the six years since.

Last month, Perry was in the news after "Orange Is the New Black" actress, Ruby Rose, alleged on social media that Perry sexually assaulted her at a Melbourne nightclub 20 years ago. After she came public with the allegations, Australian police began an investigation into Perry.

"Melbourne Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team (SOCIT) detectives are investigating a historical sexual assault that occurred in Melbourne in 2010," a representative for the Victorian Police told Fox News Digital in a statement. "Police have been told the incident occurred at a licensed premises in Melbourne’s CBD. As the investigation remains ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage."

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A representative for Perry immediately shut down the "categorically false" claims.

"The allegations being circulated on social media by Ruby Rose about Katy Perry are not only categorically false, they are dangerous, reckless lies," a representative for Perry told Fox News Digital in a statement at the time. "Ms. Rose has a well-documented history of making serious public allegations on social media against various individuals, claims that have repeatedly been denied by those named."

Tony Danza rolled a go-kart while racing NASCAR great Rusty Wallace 21 years ago today

Sat, 09 May 2026 17:56:25 -0400

Have you ever had something pop into your head and struggled to remember if it actually happened? You're not sure if it was something that the clump of brain matter in your noggin just cooked it up on its own.

Well, that was me with the time Tony Danza rolled a go-kart while racing Rusty Wallace, but sure enough, it happened exactly 21 years ago.

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So, you may recall — or have perhaps blocked it out like some kind of childhood trauma — but Tony Danza, the star of shows like "Taxi" and "Who's The Boss?", had a daytime talk show that ran from 2004 to 2006.

It was called "The Tony Danza Show," which was also the name of a 1997 sitcom that ran for just five episodes.

It was not stellar. Unless your idea of stellar is hearing Tony talk about his daughter's spelling test at school or making linguine and clams, in which case it kicked ass.

However, on one fateful day — May 9, 2005 — the show aired what is by far the most memorable moment of its entire run.

Danza had NASCAR legend Rusty Wallace on the show, and of course, being a cookie-cutter daytime talk show, they decided to have the two race go-karts.

BRAD PITT STILL 'BITTER' ABOUT DECADES-OLD COMPETITION WITH TOM CRUISE

Had that gone off without a hitch, it would've been forgotten.

But there was a big, barrel-rolling hitch that made it very memorable.

You'd think a guy with taxi-driving experience would be a bit better behind the wheel.

For years, I had this memory of seeing the promo for this, but I would wonder, "Did that happen or did I imagine it?"

Of course, I hoped it was real because it is so hilarious. Also, I'd be really concerned if my wandering brain, when left to its own devices, started writing its own Tony Danza/NASCAR crossover fan fiction.

Fortunately, Tony came out of that one unscathed, and even more fortunately, the internet has kept it alive for over two decades.

Putin says he thinks the war with Ukraine 'is coming to an end' as Trump-brokered 3-day ceasefire begins

Sat, 09 May 2026 17:32:20 -0400

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday said he thinks the war with Ukraine could end soon.

"I think that the matter ⁠is coming to an end," Putin told reporters, according to Reuters.

Putin’s words came a day after Trump announced a three-day ceasefire to celebrate the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II, as well as a massive prisoner exchange between both nations.

The ceasefire began on Saturday and will run through Monday, Trump wrote on Truth Social. "The celebration in Russia is for Victory Day but, likewise, in Ukraine, because they were also a big part and factor of World War II."

TRUMP ANNOUNCES SURPRISE THREE-DAY CEASEFIRE IN RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR

"This ceasefire will include a suspension of all kinetic activity, and also a prisoner swap of 1,000 prisoners from each country," he added. "This request was made directly by me, and I very much appreciate its agreement by President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy."

The day was celebrated with Russia’s most scaled-back Victory Day parade in years.

The war in Ukraine has dragged on for more than four years after Russia invaded the country in February 2022, with the Kremlin initially believing it could win quickly yet Russia still hasn’t been able to take the entire Donbass region.

US SPECIAL ENVOY WITKOFF ANNOUNCES US, UKRAINIAN AND RUSSIAN DELEGATIONS AGREED TO PRISONER SWAP

Putin told reporters that he would prefer to talk to former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder when asked about talks with European leaders.

He added that he would only consider speaking with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy after a lasting peace deal had been agreed upon.

On X, Zelenskyy confirmed the exchange of prisoners captured during the four-year conflict, which began when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of its neighbor.

"Within the framework of the negotiating process mediated by the American side, we received Russia’s agreement to conduct a prisoner exchange in the format of 1,000 for 1,000," he wrote. "A ceasefire regime must also be established on May 9, 10, and 11. Ukraine is consistently working to bring its people home from Russian captivity. I have instructed our team to promptly prepare everything necessary for the exchange."

Zelenskyy also thanked Trump for his diplomatic involvement in the process and said he hopes the United States will make sure Moscow abides by the agreement.

Fox News' Louis Casiano contributed to this report.

Seth Moulton closing gap on progressive Democrat Ed Markey in Massachusetts Senate primary

Sat, 09 May 2026 17:14:09 -0400

A new poll shows the race tightening for the Democratic primary in Massachusetts, with challenger Rep. Seth Moulton closing in on Sen. Ed Markey.

The race is one of the most hotly contested primaries in the country, with the more progressive Markey having led by as much as 20 points in previous polls, according to Axios.

Markey, 79, who has held his seat since 2013, has the backing of the Democratic establishment, with the 47-year-old congressman looking to unseat him.

Just last month, Markey comfortably led Moulton 47-30% in a Suffolk University/Boston Globe poll, according to Boston.com.

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Markey has the backing of Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Ayanna Pressley, while Moulton, who is considered more centrist, has been endorsed by groups like VoteVets PAC and the Massachusetts Teamsters.

In the new Emerson College poll that shows Markey leading Mouton 37-32%, 29% of voters remain undecided. Only 2% of voters back other candidates in the race.

"Senator Markey leads the Democratic primary by 13 points among registered Democrats, while Rep. Moulton holds a 38% to 32% edge among unenrolled voters," Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling, said. "Markey leads women 37% to 29%, while men are essentially split, with 38% backing Moulton and 37% Markey."

SQUAD MEMBER AYANNA PRESSLEY ANNOUNCES DECISION ON CHALLENGING ED MARKEY IN PRIMARY

The poll was taken on May 3 and 4 and included 451 likely Democratic primary voters. It also notably has a 4.5% margin of error.

Markey also has a 7% advantage among voters under 50, 33-to 26%, with voters over 50 years old split 40% for Markey and 38% for Moulton.

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"Notably, groups that are more favorable toward Markey, including women and young voters, are also more undecided than their counterparts; women are ten points more undecided than men (33% to 23%), and 39% of voters under 50 are undecided compared to 21% of voters over 50," Kimball added.

The poll also showed Markey and Moulton both as less favorable than Warren, with Markey matching Warren’s unfavorable ratings of 35%. Moulton’s unfavorable rating was lower at 26%.

The primary will be held on Sept. 1.

Barack Obama, Larry David partner for new HBO historically based sketch comedy series

Sat, 09 May 2026 17:00:06 -0400

Former President Barack Obama and comedian Larry David previewed their upcoming HBO Max series "Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness" in a new teaser on Thursday.

"I have sat across the table from some of the world’s most difficult leaders and wrestled with some of the globe’s most intractable problems," Obama said in the video. "Nothing has prepared me for working with Larry David. I’m just a producer on this show, so I don’t have to deal with him day-to-day, but, still, it’s a lot."

David then enters the teaser, referring to Obama as "44" and jokingly asking if he could list him as an emergency contact.

LARRY DAVID SAYS HE WAS 'RELIEVED' TO BE UNINVITED FROM BARACK OBAMA'S CONTROVERSIAL 60TH BIRTHDAY PARTY

"Well, because if they see your name, they’ll be more inclined to help," David said.

Fox News Digital reached out to a representative for the Obamas for comment.

Per Deadline, the logline for series reads, "President and Mrs. Obama wanted to honor America’s 250th anniversary and celebrate the unique history of our nation on this special occasion...But then Larry David called."

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The "Curb Your Enthusiasm" star previously previewed the series at South by Southwest last March. The series will feature seven episodes with four historically based comedy sketches every episode. One preview featured David playing a sailor moments after the famous V-J Day Times Square kiss.

The series will feature actors such as Bill Hader, Kathryn Hahn, Jon Hamm and Sean Hayes as well as Obama himself.

"Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness" will premiere on June 26 with new episodes airing weekly.

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The HBO Max series teaser came less than one month after reports that Obama and his wife Michelle's film production company, Higher Ground, would be leaving Netflix despite their longtime deal with the streaming giant. The former president hinted at the switch during the History Channel’s special edition of HistoryTalks.

"[W]e were in partnership with Netflix," Obama said. "We’re in a process now of transitioning to a more independent [future] where we can work with a bunch of different studios."

The reactions on social media were mixed. One reader on X responded to the news by saying, "Love Larry David, but found this to be cringe. Show could still be good though. The premise of the bit was just very very basic and didn't have a punch line really."

Another offered a more hopeful take, saying, "Can't wait for this! Larry David actually campaigned for Barack Obama during the 2008 New Hampshire primary, so these two go way back!"

Ex-MLB pitcher accused of 'controlling behavior' in ugly divorce battle amid numerous 911 calls to home

Sat, 09 May 2026 16:55:34 -0400

A former MLB pitcher's divorce is getting ugly.

Carl Pavano and his ex-wife, Alissa, have been in quite the prenup battle, with Alissa accusing the former pitcher of signing the one-sided agreement she says she was "demanded" to sign.

According to documents, Alissa "had given up her residence, potential employment, and all financial independence" after Carl had shown "ongoing controlling behavior," including name-calling, cutting off her expenses and threats to take their children.

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To make matters worse, according to CT Insider, police have been called to their shared home in Connecticut nine times over the last two years, and most recently on April 29.

"A prenuptial agreement is an acceptable way for individuals, prior to marriage, to condition how their financial interests and responsibilities will be determined after marriage," Alissa’s lawyers said in a brief, via the New York Post.

"It should not be an acceptable way for a monied spouse who has already started a family with his significant other to force her to give up her financial independence, and then to extract financial advantages in the premarital agreement under the threat of taking the minor children away from her and leaving her destitute."

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The signing of the prenup was videotaped, documents say, after Alissa had a $500 consultation with her attorney.

State Superior Court Judge Thomas O'Neill ruled the prenup valid, awarding Alissa $300,000 and ordering Carl to buy her a home worth $1 million. Carl had a net worth of over $43 million by the time the trial began, the document says.

The prenup was signed shortly after they were married in 2011, but the divorce began in 2024. The aforementioned ruling came last year.

Pavano pitched for the Montreal Expos, Florida Marlins, New York Yankees, Cleveland Indians and Minnesota Twins, being named an All-Star in 2004. He pitched to a 4.81 ERA in his career, with his biggest payday coming from the Yankees. However, he only made 26 starts in his four seasons with them and is widely considered one of their worst signings.

PK Subban makes good on commitment, donates $10M to Montreal Children's Hospital

Sat, 09 May 2026 16:32:23 -0400

Over a decade ago, PK Subban was one of the top defensemen in the NHL. He had already won a Norris Trophy and was one of the faces of the Montreal Canadiens when he made a big promise: he was going to donate $10 million to the Montreal Children’s Hospital.

That was in 2015, and a little over a year later, the Canadiens shipped him off to Nashville in a blockbuster trade for Hall of Fame blueliner Shea Weber.

But that didn't mean that he was going to break his promise.

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It was announced on Friday that Subban has achieved his mission of donating $10 million to the hospital, something that, according to The Montreal Gazette, is the biggest philanthropic commitment by an athlete in Canada.

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"It was difficult. Definitely had its difficulties," Subban said. "Was there any doubt in my mind? No, because I made a commitment that I was always gonna follow through on."

Subban — who now works as an analyst for ESPN — said ahead of a Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation gala on Friday that getting to that lofty number was a serious challenge, and was made even more difficult by those who doubted his commitment and follow-through.

"At 23 years old, I think for people to see somebody take on that level of responsibility breeds questions," Subban said. "For those doubters, I hope they believe in themselves. Don’t doubt other people, just find that courage to believe in yourself, and believe that the impossible is possible, and we just proved that."

Hats off to PK for this one. The foundation says the funds he donated have helped 100,000 kids, and that is just awesome.

It would've been easy to go the "Scott's Tots" route (fans of "The Office" know what I mean) when he was traded out of town, but nope. He was true to his word.

Great stuff from PK.

Billy Bob Thornton reveals the lifelong health battle behind his extreme diet

Sat, 09 May 2026 16:24:33 -0400

Billy Bob Thornton is sharing his health challenges and how they led to his extreme diet.

During a recent appearance on the "Howie Mandel Does Stuff" podcast, the 70-year-old actor revealed the lifelong health battle that has influenced his strange snacking choices.

"My diet's very restricted. Well, I'm allergic to wheat, dairy. I have type AB negative blood, which is the rarest type in the world. It's like less than 1% of the population of the world has it," he explained. "It means you have less digestive enzymes. That's one of the things that goes along with it. But I just grew up with a lot of allergies."

He went on to list some of the dietary restrictions that come with his condition, saying he can't eat dairy, wheat or shellfish, as well as meat, including "pork or beef or any of that stuff."

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The "Bad Santa" actor has gotten a handle on his health and nutrition, noting for breakfast that morning he had a bowl of blueberries, and that he planned to indulge in "some gluten-free chips with some dairy-free cream cheese" when he got home.

"When I was a kid, you know, I grew up in Arkansas and East Texas and I ate everything," he said. "I just assumed everybody felt like s--- after they ate. I didn't know."

His many dietary restrictions have led to some adventurous snacking. During the interview, he discussed being in the green room before a "Landman" Q&A event and not seeing anything that was safe for him to eat.

While looking at a plate of deli meats, cheeses and crackers, Thornton found some grapes he could munch on, and after thinking, "OK, so I'll be bored as hell with this," he found an unlikely item to pair it with.

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"I dipped this grape in the Dijon mustard," he said. "It had It was one of the best things I ever had in my lifetime. So now it's become a thing for me."

As a younger actor, Thornton was known for undergoing drastic body transformations for his roles, but during an interview on "Late Night with Seth Meyers," in January, he shared he won't do it anymore "because it does not feel good."

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He recalled gaining 60lbs for roles in "Tombstone" and "U Turn" in the late 1990s, and then later did a movie called "Pushing Tin" for which he "got down to 128."

"It’s funny — if I ever see a picture of those days, because this is back … when you’re a younger actor, you’re like, ‘Well, I’m going to gain 75 pounds for this, and the next time I’m going to do this,’ and whatever, ‘I’ll cut my own cheek,’ you know, that kind of thing," he said with a laugh. "After a while, as you get older, you stop doing that stuff."

Thornton is currently starring in the popular Paramount + show "Landman" alongside Ali Larter, Demi Moore and Sam Elliot.

The show focuses on roughnecks and billionaires in West Texas who are trying to get rich as the oil industry continues to take over the state.

"I think the thing that I learned that I wasn't quite aware of before — because I knew some about the oil business — but I knew people more on the sort of suit side of it, you know, in Texas," he told Fox News Digital in November 2025. "One of the things that surprised me was how many people who had had broken lives are working in the oil fields. Got ex-cons and all kinds of things working out there because they can make from $120,000 to $180,000 a year to take care of their families when they try to straighten their lives out."