Tsurenko to take legal action over WTA ‘abuse’

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Ukraine’s Lesia Tsurenko says she will “seek justice in court” after being subjected to “moral abuse” by the Women’s Tennis Association.

The 35-year-old says she has suffered from panic attacks because of the tour’s decision to “protect” an unnamed senior official after their “conscious” attack on her.

“I spoke about it openly and directly. I tried to seek protection and justice within the WTA,” Tsurenko wrote.

“But in response, faced indifference and injustice, which led to a prolonged moral decline.

“Pain, fear, panic attacks, humiliation, withholding information, harassment of my team to silence me… and this isn’t even the full list of what I’ve had to endure.

“My last chance to defend myself, to stand up for my rights, my dignity, and to prevent such acts of violence in sports is to seek justice in court.”

Tsurenko, who considered quitting tennis following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, has spoken regularly about the challenges of competing on the tour against the backdrop of the war.

The Ukrainian, ranked 239th in the world, pulled out of a match in 2023 after suffering a panic attack following a conversation with the WTA leadership about its response to the war.

She says the organisation has become a “terrifying and alien place”.

“The WTA tour refused to protect a woman, a player, a human being. Instead, the WTA tour chose to protect a person in a leadership position,” wrote Tsurenko.

What has the WTA said?

The WTA has emphasised its position in opposing Russia’s invasion and maintaining its support of Ukrainian athletes.

“From the outset, the WTA has been steadfast and clear in its condemnation of Russia’s war on Ukraine and the actions of the Russian government against the Ukrainian people,” the association said.

“Consistent with our position, the WTA has taken numerous steps to assist our Ukrainian player members, who have faced great challenges as professional athletes.

“The WTA has been equally clear that it was founded on principles of equality and non-discrimination and its rules provide that competitions are open to all women players who qualify based on their merit, and without discrimination.

“Consistent with those principles, and in common with other tennis organizations, the WTA has taken the position that individual athletes should not be penalised for the actions of their governments.”

It added: “While the WTA has the greatest sympathy for the significant challenges that Ms Tsurenko and our other Ukrainian athletes have faced, we are disappointed that she has decided to engage in litigation to seek to hold the WTA responsible for her distress.

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Time Magazine Names Mo Abudu Among 100 Most Influential People Globally

Mo Abudu, the CEO of EbonyLife Group, has been named one of TIME magazine’s 100 most powerful people in the world.  

The most influential people in the world are recognized for their contributions, creativity, and accomplishments.

Abudu was chosen for his films, television shows, and media contributions.

It’s humbling and inspiring to be given the TIME100 name. It serves as a reminder that African stories have a place on the global stage, she said of the award.

Every creative, entrepreneur, and changemaker who dares to dream big, deserves this honor. I’m eternally grateful to my amazing team, my family, friends, and allies who have remained positive throughout this journey. My passion is fueled by their unwavering support.

This recognition strengthens my resolve to keep creating platforms that amplify African voices, shift narratives, and inspire the next generation of creatives to shape the future as I continue to push boundaries with bold initiatives. ”

Also Read: Idris Elba and Mo Abudu Work on the short film ‘Dust To Dreams, a Nigerian film.

Idris Elba, whose Greendoor Pictures collaborated with Mo Abudu to promote and advance talent from Africa and its diaspora through the creation of new TV and film projects, was invited to speak out about Abudu, saying: “Mo Abudu’s reputation precedes her. Anyone with experience with African film knows about her. Before I reached out to her two years ago, I had been a fan of her work for a while.

We were developing a collaboration plan for a movie about to be known as Dust to Dreams pretty quickly. That is the beauty of Mo: she wastes no time. She is adamant about doing things and has the willpower to overcome any challenge. Her expansive empire, which includes cinemas, productions, studios, and an artistic academy, is a testament to that.

NIPR Spokesperson of the Year 2025: NNPCL’s Olufemi Soneye A Shining Star in Public Relations

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL)’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer has been named the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) Spokesperson of the Year 2025 in Abuja, a resounding endorsement of his exceptional communication abilities and commitment to improving corporate image.

Soneye’s outstanding contributions to the field of public relations, which are reflected in this prestigious award, demonstrate his prowess and potential for shaping public opinion and handling complex communication issues, and are appropriate recognition of his outstanding contributions.

According to Persecondnews, Soneye’s journey to this goal is the product of intense passion, diligent work, and unwavering commitment.

He has consistently demonstrated his ability to craft compelling narratives and manage crises with finesse with a vast and varied background in journalism and extensive experience in media and communications.

Soneye, a former president of the Nigerian Media Practitioners, was a member of reputable organizations like the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the National Association of Black Journalists, the Society of Professional Journalists, and the Nigerian Guild of Corporate Online Media Publishers.

His appointment as NNPCL’s CCO in 2023 marked a new chapter in his career, where he has successfully led the company’s strategic communications initiatives and brand penetration.

Soneye’s accomplishments include the NIPR award, which he received in addition to his previous accomplishments, which included those from Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Limited and Shell Companies in Nigeria.

According to Dr. Shaibu Hussein, Chairman of the Adjudication Committee of NIPR, Dr. Hussein’s selection was a key factor in his selection. His growing influence and reputation as a master communicator, as well as his demonstrated ability to influence public opinion, and his exceptional communication skills, were key factors in his selection.

Soneye stressed the value of collaboration and teamwork in achieving excellence in his acceptance speech, citing the dedication of the entire NNPCL team.

“We are all delighted, and NIPR gave me a great honor tonight. He thanked NIPR for all they continue to do, and this award honors the hard work of our entire team, amid a irate applause.

Soneye will be praised throughout the year for his outstanding contributions to the field because he won NIPR Spokesperson of the Year 2025.

EFL preview: Easter crunch time at top and bottom

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Instead of hot cross buns and chocolate eggs, Friday’s full schedule of EFL games is the real treat to start Easter weekend.

Amazingly, every one of the 24 Championship teams can still be promoted or relegated with only four games left.

There are some seismic events that are expected to have a significant impact on both the promotion and relegation scraps over the course of a nine-and-a-half hour window.

Scott Parker gestures with three fingersFeatures of Rex

Can Clarets and Whites approach a Champagne moment?

Before Leeds kick off at Oxford United (20:00 BST), Burnley could be three points clear at the top of the pile.

The Clarets travel to Vicarage Road in an effort to clinch their place in the Hornets’ playoff hopes by 90 minutes away from a potential Premier League title win.

The men’s league record of 30 could be set at the time they won the Division One title in 1921, when Scott Parker’s men have won 29 games without losing.

According to Parker, “This is about staying very level, very focused, and not getting carried away by the emotions of this time of year.”

There are still four games to play, so let’s keep chalking them off. “My message is to stay calm.”

After falling apart in March, Daniel Farke’s men won six of their five matches by claiming the title’s fate. However, Leeds have since picked up two victories to maintain their own destiny.

Manor Solomon, who scored for Preston on Saturday to win the game 2-1, said to BBC Radio Leeds: “We are really happy but we know we need to stay humble.” We were seven points clear a month ago.

There are still four games left, and we want to win every single game until we can advance.

Although Gary Rowett’s side have been on the verge of extinction in their last five games, a home win under the lights here would all but confirm another season in the Championship, the Whites defeated Oxford 4-0 at Elland Road in December.

With a record-breaking three straight defeats, Sheffield United are effectively six points adrift of the top-two in the weekend despite having a lower goal difference when they travel to Bramall Lane to face third-bottom Cardiff.

It’s as straightforward as that, boss Chris Wilder told BBC Radio Sheffield, “Everyone wants to sensationalise things but we haven’t been good enough.”

We’ve done our finishing, and we’ve not created enough. At each end of the pitch, we haven’t done enough.

“We must face criticism for losing three games when we ought to have won two.” And I’m content to do that.

We fully understand that we have four games to play, and we need to adjust accordingly.

The Championship top sixOpta

Relegation battlers and play-off rivals compete against one another.

Sunderland have been atop the standings for fourth place since the Christmas decorations were put up, but they now face a fascinating 15:00 BST match at Bristol City, 12 points adrift in fifth, as they try to resurrect their position in what could be a set-up for a potential semi-final showdown.

At Ashton Gate, the Robins have won five of their past six games while losing just one of their last 11 overall.

Boss Liam Manning told BBC Radio Bristol, “We’ve given ourselves something to play for, and credit to the lads for doing that.”

There will be many twists and turns as the season comes to an end; it’s about doing what you can, coming up, and having faith in yourself.

West Bromwich Albion are in command of the pack and would jump back above the dotted line with a win at Coventry, who occupy the top six but would struggle on goal difference if they lost to the Baggies. Last week, they returned to winning ways after a five-game skid.

If Albion beat bottom club Plymouth at the Riverside, Middlesbrough, who sits in eighth place, would also be able to overhaul the Sky Blues.

If Millwall defeats Blackburn, who are still in the play-off race, they could be on par with Coventry in ninth place.

With the potential biggest game of the season for both teams coming up at 12:30, fourth-bottom Derby host second-bottom Luton, all eyes are on the relegation battle.

Wrexham wants to start the championship race on the gas.

Wrexham fans looking anxious at WiganFeatures of Rex

Birmingham, who had just lost to Wrexham in a 0-0 draw at Wigan, were declared League One champions without even playing last weekend.

Crawley hosts the Blues, looking to maintain their quest to break Reading’s 106-point EFL points record, which was established 19 years ago.

The Vertu Trophy defeat by Peterborough on Sunday by Chris Davies’ side requires 12 points from their final six games to do better.

Wrexham make a return to the Racecourse Ground in an effort to at least keep their one-point lead over Wycombe in the race for the other automatic promotion spot.

The Chairboys have a different challenge than the Red Dragons’, who lost to Rovers of Bristol last weekend after falling for them on goal difference six times.

They travel to Bolton, who are in eighth place, to start their play-off hopes.

If they defeat Peterborough or if Leyton Orient and Bolton both fail to win at home to Barnsley and Wycombe, respectively, then Stockport, five points behind Wrexham with four games remaining, will be guaranteed of a top-six spot.

If they defeat Northampton, 19th place and still not safe, Charlton will advance to the play-offs on Friday, depending on the results of Orient, Bolton, and Huddersfield at home to Cambridge United.

With four games to go, bottom club Shrewsbury will be relegated on Friday unless they defeat Wigan, and Burton and Rovers of Bristol both lose at Exeter and Wrexham, respectively. They are also 12 points away from safety.

If Burton or Rovers of Bristol beat Cambridge United at Huddersfield, they will also be down. They can’t go down before Monday if the Us avoid defeat.

Top and bottom of League Two running out of time.

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In League Two, things might get even tenser.

With only four games left, leaders Port Vale face a crucial trip to Carlisle, who are vying to stay in the EFL.

If Accrington lose to the Valiants and Accrington lose to Salford, Mark Hughes’ second-bottom Cumbrians, who are six points behind Accrington and have a lower goal difference, might need to play snooker.

If they win, Vale will be assured of at least a play-off spot, though losing to Colchester or Grimsby at home to Swindon, which former boss Ian Holloway controls, could cement a spot there even in defeat.

If Bromley loses to Accrington, Accrington wins, and fourth-bottomed Tranmere defeats Doncaster, bottom club Morecambe, a point behind Carlisle, would be relegated to the National League.

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Ancelotti Exposed As Real Madrid Struggle To Accommodate Mbappe

Kylian Mbappe’s arrival at Real Madrid was envisioned to expand their Champions League domination, but he was muzzled by Arsenal as Los Blancos crashed out in the quarter-finals, leaving coach Carlo Ancelotti on the brink.

The holders find themselves picking up the pieces after Arsenal surgically dispatched them with a 5-1 aggregate triumph on Wednesday, and now it is Ancelotti who needs a miracle comeback to survive in his post.

The Gunners reached the final four with a 2-1 away win and will face Mbappe’s former side, Paris Saint-Germain, soaring without the French superstar, who left in search of European silverware with the record 15-time winners.

Mbappe limped off with an ankle injury in the final stages against Arsenal, leaving Madrid’s ‘remontada’ ambitions in tatters and his coach under the microscope.

The Italian’s team is deeply flawed this season, a far more fragile outfit than the side which powered to a Champions League and La Liga double last season.

To put the defeat into context, this will be the just the third time in 12 seasons that Madrid have failed to reach the Champions League semi-finals.

Mbappe’s arrival, despite his strong form in 2025 and 33 goals across all competitions, is one of the main factors in Madrid’s downturn, with Ancelotti unable to accommodate him and Vinicius Junior together without destabilising the team.

It is clear Ancelotti has not found the right strategy to use them, Jude Bellingham and Rodrygo Goes together in the biggest matches.

“We have to make more collective moves rather than individual ones,” noted goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after the elimination, with Madrid reliant on star power rather than consistently outplaying opponents.

Ancelotti has deployed Mbappe in a centre-forward role but he drifts frequently, and in the past has preferred to play off the left flank — Vinicius’ preferred spot.

Last season Bellingham and Joselu Mato both operated through the middle at times, and although the former is naturally a midfielder, the Englishman’s physicality and presence was a huge boon for Madrid.

Against Arsenal and in the absence of any better ideas to break down Mikel Arteta’s rock-solid defence, Madrid slung balls into the box in search of a target man like Joselu, who left last summer for a Qatar.

“We put in a lot of crosses but this year we don’t have a Joselu, a born centre-forward up there,” observed Courtois.

READ ALSO: Arsenal Knock Out Holders Real Madrid To Reach Champions League Semis

‘No problem’

Mbappe
Real Madrid’s French forward #09 Kylian Mbappe talks with Real Madrid’s Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti as he leaves the pitch during the Spanish league football match between Real Madrid CF and Deportivo Alaves at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium in Madrid on September 24, 2024. (Photo by Javier SORIANO / AFP)

Ancelotti has been frustrated with his side on a regular basis this season, for their lack of “collective commitment” to defending.

The 65-year-old threatened Vinicius with substitution during the Copa del Rey semi-final second leg against Real Sociedad because the Brazilian was not running enough.

“That warning brought out the best in Vinicius — from then on, he increased the pace and quality,” said the Italian.

Ancelotti has been open about his future, knowing for weeks he may not be kept on for the last year of his contract.

For some time speculation has mounted that Madrid will look for a new coach in the summer, with Jurgen Klopp and Xabi Alonso the favourites.

“It could be that the club decide to change (coach), it could be this year — or the next when my contract expires, there’s no problem,” said Ancelotti on Wednesday.

Madrid’s defeat on Wednesday was their 12th of the season compared to just two in the whole of the 2023-24 campaign.

Toni Kroos’ departure last summer is another factor, with Madrid’s midfield not convincing this year.

The Arsenal post-mortem and any subsequent finding that can be utilised are even more crucial given Madrid still have trophies on the line.

They are four points behind Barcelona in La Liga, firmly in the title race with a Clasico to come in May which could decide the title.

Barcelona have won the previous two derbies, scoring nine goals in total to Madrid’s two.

Madrid also face their arch-rivals in the Copa del Rey final on April 26, and will participate in the Club World Cup this summer, although Ancelotti may not be in charge by that point.

If Mbappe is to end the season with a major trophy and Ancelotti is to go out with the bang his Madrid legacy merits, there is no time to lick their wounds.