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The New Era of Veteran FootballersAfter playing at Qatar 2022 at age 35, US national team defender Tim Ream thought it was "pretty unlikely" he could play in another World Cup. But he decided he would at least try to stay in the game as long as possible. "Because for me, it's about pushing boundaries, pushing myself, pushing the limits of what I can physically and emotionally handle," he told Al Jazeera.Last week, Ream was named as the US's captain for the upcoming football tournament in North America and, at 38, is the oldest ever outfield player in a US World Cup squad. "To be given the honour and the opportunity to wear the captain's armband in a home World Cup is incredible," he said.Ream is one of several outfield players in their late 30s and beyond at the 2026 World Cup; including Portugal superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, the 40-year-olds Luka Modric and Edin Dzeko, Yuto Nagatomo, 39, and Argentina legend Lionel Messi, who turns 39 later this month.The Science Behind Extended CareersEvolving sport science plays a significant role in extending career longevity – the days when "recovery" meant having a few beers after the game are long gone, and many players now extoll all kinds of developments from lymphatic draining to cryotherapy.Huge amounts of data measuring biomarkers from heart rate variability and muscle oxygenation to hormonal fluctuations and inflammation are now available, including from wearable technology. But experts argue that sport science is just part of a complex system of interlocking factors needed to extend longevity in football, including culture, relationships, a learning mindset, luck, resources, and the motivation to keep going into a fifth decade."This question is always about people," Vlatko Vucetic, a professor of kinesiology at the University of Zagreb who has worked as a personal trainer with Croatian and Real Madrid star midfielder Modric for more than 10 years, told Al Jazeera.The Statistical Shift in Football LongevityFootballers tend to peak before the age of 30, with research suggesting a general decline in the early 30s in terms of speed, power and explosiveness, although endurance fades more slowly. As players age, recovery takes longer, and they also become more susceptible to injuries. Football has also gotten much faster and more physical over the last few decades, and the number of matches at the elite level has increased dramatically.According to Transfermarkt.com, only 15 players aged 35 or above appeared in the Premier League this season out of more than 500 players. However, there is evidence that the median age of footballers may be increasing, while the number of outfield players playing into their late 30s and early 40s at the upcoming World Cup is striking. Before this tournament, Cameroon's Roger Milla – who scored at USA 1994 aged 42 – was the only outfield player in their 40s to play at a World Cup.How Aging Stars Are Transforming Football CultureBen Rosenblatt was the lead performance coach for the England men's team for seven years and is the founder and director of 292 Performance, a sport consultancy firm that trains and advises elite individuals and organisations. He told Al Jazeera that advances in sport science and data collection – and an increased focus on health and wellness culture inside and outside the game – have helped extend careers in football."Within the game, there is more attention to detail over the last two decades being placed on an understanding and knowledge around training science and in particular, how to schedule organised training sessions to optimise athletes' performance and reduce injury risk – which is obviously going to be a big survival factor for players," he said.While Rosenblatt says longevity relies on "the amalgamation of all the different tools, resources, culture and behavioural shifts that are taking place within the game", the fundamentals remain crucial; training, recovery, sleep, lifestyle, nutrition and hydration."It's about doing the stuff that's quite boring and basic 99 percent of the time," he said.The Future of Athletic Longevity in FootballLooking ahead, Rosenblatt says putting the huge amount of available data together to create a more holistic picture of a player could be "transformative" for longevity. "That's kind of the Holy Grail, because you can give clarity to a manager or an owner game by game or across the course of a season about what the player is capable of delivering, and then obviously what development they require," he said.And extending longevity means establishing routines, discipline, and what works early on. "I know so many players who, towards the end of their career, tried to find a routine and they couldn't stick with it because they hadn't done it early enough," Ream said. "Find these things and get into them early, because it'll help you in the long run."Veterans playing into middle age will often adapt their game to compensate for slowing legs with assets like enhanced vision. "I think my biggest improvement is being able to see things as they're developing, and as they're happening, but then also understanding and adapting to different coaches," Ream said. "I think that's where you have to understand the interpersonal side with this game, because it's all about connections, it's all about communication, it's all about relationships on and off the field."

The LeadThe MCC has issued an apology for the quality of the Lord's pitch prepared for the opening Test against New Zealand, following criticism from England captain Ben Stokes about "extreme conditions" that led to an unusually short match. The match, part of Lord's 150th Test celebrations, became the first since 1888 to feature fewer than 1,000 legal deliveries as England secured a 115-run victory.The Pitch ControversyThe Lord's surface produced unpredictable bounce and prodigious movement off the seam, resulting in the English record for the most batters dismissed either lbw or bowled in a Test match. Only two half-centurions were scored, with just nine of the 40 innings lasting 20 balls or more. MCC chief executive and secretary Rob Lawson acknowledged the pitch showed "more variable bounce than we would have wanted" and expressed frustration that it "fell short of" their high standards.Historical ContextThis match marked a significant historical anomaly at Lord's, becoming the first Test at the venue since 1888 to conclude with fewer than 1,000 legal deliveries. For context, a typical five-day Test match usually sees between 2,000-2,500 deliveries. The match would have ended on the second day had it not been for frequent rain interruptions, adding another layer of controversy to the preparation of the surface.Player ReactionsEngland captain Ben Stokes criticized the "extreme conditions" that "are not going to help the game," acknowledging the challenges they present for the future of Test cricket. "When you see extreme conditions like that, that's not going to help the game in the future," Stokes stated. New Zealand captain Tom Lament was equally critical, noting "guys were not able to trust the surface" and dismissing the idea that the curators intentionally produced such a difficult wicket.Future of Test CricketThe pitch controversy has reignited discussions about the future of Test cricket and the challenges of preparing balanced surfaces. Stokes addressed concerns about the format's longevity, stating: "From someone who believes that Test cricket should and always will be the best format and should never disappear, that's not ideal." The MCC has pledged to "act quickly" following the issues, while both teams prepare for the remaining matches in the series, with England acknowledging they "still have a long way to go" despite their victory.

A Medical Miracle in War-Torn YemenIn the besieged city of Taiz, southwest Yemen, a young girl named Noor Majid lies recovering from surgery to treat her atrial septal defect (ASD), commonly known as "hole in the heart." Ten-year-old Noor has had this condition since birth, causing constant breathing problems and chronic exhaustion. Her surgery is part of a larger medical revolution taking place in Yemen, where the Cardiac and Vascular Diseases and Kidney Transplant Center is providing life-saving care to patients who would otherwise have no options.The Growth of Yemen's Premier Medical FacilityThe Cardiac and Vascular Diseases and Kidney Transplant Center in Taiz represents one of Yemen's most significant medical achievements in recent years. Founded in July 2021 by Professor Abudar al-Ganadi, the facility has grown exponentially since its inception. What began with just six beds on one floor has expanded to 131 beds, including 23 intensive care beds. The center now performs 500 operations monthly, including 50 adult cardiac surgeries, 70 vascular surgeries, and 300 cardiac catheterization procedures—a dramatic increase from the initial 3-5 surgeries performed each month during its first year of operation.Transforming Healthcare Economics in YemenThe medical center has not only transformed healthcare outcomes but also economics for Yemeni patients. Complex procedures that would cost approximately $20,000 abroad—including travel, accommodation, and living expenses—are performed at the Taiz center for just $5,000, with patients paying only $2,000 out of pocket. The remaining costs are covered by benefactors such as the Hayel Saeed Anam Group, Al-Zailai Company, and Al-Kuraimi Bank. According to Dr. Nader al-Hammadi, approximately 1,000 of the 1,500 open-heart surgeries performed at the center would have been done abroad if the facility had not existed, saving patients both financial hardship and the complications of international travel.A New Era for Specialized Medical Care in YemenThe establishment of this medical center has marked a paradigm shift in healthcare delivery in Yemen. Despite the country's ongoing conflict, which has devastated health infrastructure nationwide, the Taiz center has conducted 164 kidney transplants, 1,450 open-heart surgeries, nearly 4,000 vascular operations, 4,340 catheterization procedures, and 1,500 urology operations since opening. Most recently, the center announced Yemen's first three liver transplants—a milestone that could pave the way for sustainable treatment of liver conditions in the country. This achievement has garnered international attention and positions Yemen as capable of providing advanced medical care despite its challenging circumstances.The Future of Healthcare in YemenLooking ahead, Professor al-Ganadi emphasizes cautious optimism regarding the center's expansion, particularly in liver transplantation. "We launched this programme quietly and cautiously with two cases, then a third one, and we will continue gradually. We will not announce preliminary results until after 10 transplants, then 50, just as we did with the cardiac programme," he explains. The center's success has not only provided critical medical care to Yemenis but has also created a model for delivering specialized healthcare in conflict zones. As the center continues to grow and develop new capabilities, it stands as a testament to the resilience of Yemen's medical professionals and their commitment to improving healthcare outcomes in the face of tremendous challenges.

In a rare public endorsement, Itamar Ben‑Gvir lauded the Israeli police after they eliminated an armed shooter in central Israel on June 7, 2026. The minister’s remarks, delivered amid heightened security concerns, underscore the political weight of police actions in a volatile region. Police Operation Neutralizes Central Israel Shooter Location: Central Israel, near the city of Ramla. Time: Early afternoon, 13:40 GMT. Outcome: Police engaged the suspect, resulting in the shooter’s death. Authorities: Israel Police Tactical Unit (Yamam) led the response. Casualties and Immediate Aftermath Fatalities: 1 (the shooter). Injuries: No civilian injuries reported. Police casualties: None. Public reaction: Mixed, with some praising the swift action and others calling for a thorough investigation. Political Reverberations of Ben‑Gvir’s Praise Ben‑Gvir framed the operation as evidence of “effective security under a strong government.” Opposition parties warned against politicizing police work. The statement arrives weeks before the national elections, potentially bolstering right‑wing security narratives. International observers noted the incident as part of a broader rise in domestic threats. What This Signals for Israel’s Security Policy Increased emphasis on rapid tactical response units. Potential legislative push for expanded police powers, championed by Ben‑Gvir’s party. Heightened public scrutiny of police accountability mechanisms. Analysts predict that security will remain a central election issue, influencing coalition dynamics.

The Lead: A Minimalist Figaro Takes the UK on TourWild Arts presents a lean‑back version of Mozart’s classic, traveling to over 20 arts centres, theatres, churches and gardens across the United Kingdom between June and September 2026. The production’s modest set – four boxes, six screens, four chairs and a tree – proves that operatic storytelling can thrive without grandiose scenery.De Niese’s Directorial Leap: From Soprano to Stage‑DirectorAustralian‑born soprano Danielle de Niese, a veteran of the role of Susanna, makes her directorial debut. Her intimate knowledge of the score and characters informs a staging that balances historical costume with modern, slapstick‑ish movement, delivering a fresh comedic rhythm while preserving Mozart’s musical integrity.Tour Logistics and Audience Reach: 20 Venues in Three MonthsTour period: June 7 – September 27 2026Number of locations: more than 20 across the UKVenue types: arts centres, theatres, churches, gardensThe lightweight set enables rapid relocation, allowing the company to engage diverse audiences, from urban opera houses to rural garden settings, without compromising performance quality.Reimagining Mozart for Modern AudiencesThe production’s visual simplicity amplifies the opera’s inherent comedy – cramped furniture, rapid entrances, and exaggerated gestures become even funnier on a tiny stage. Cast highlights include Jack Sandison’s resonant Figaro and Ellie Neate’s bright Susanna, whose vocal clarity and dramatic confidence stand out against the minimalist backdrop.Future Prospects: What This Means for De Niese and Touring OperaDe Niese’s successful transition suggests a growing appetite for artist‑led, low‑budget touring models that can reach underserved regions. If the tour maintains its critical momentum, it could pave the way for more soprano‑directors and inspire other companies to experiment with portable, high‑impact productions.

Rethinking the Three‑Meal RoutineThe long‑standing expectation that we sit down for breakfast, lunch and dinner each day is being questioned. From MFK Fisher’s 1942 critique to today’s research on snack‑driven lifestyles, the article argues that the three‑meal model is a cultural construct rather than a biological necessity.Historical Roots of the Three‑Meal ScheduleThe pattern emerged during the Industrial Revolution to fit a day of labour: a quick breakfast before work, a light lunch taken on the factory floor, and a dinner after the shift ended. Figures such as John Harvey Kellogg promoted bland, easy‑to‑digest breakfasts for moral and productivity reasons, while later entrepreneurs like Alan Sugar normalised the desk‑bound sandwich as a lunch staple.Emerging Data on Changing Eating PatternsPost‑pandemic research shows a rise in flexible eating, with many people opting for two or fewer structured meals.ONS data links the shift to an increase in solo households and changing family structures.Academics are studying the health impacts of moving away from the traditional three‑meal framework.Social and Gender Implications of Prescribed Meal TimesPrescribed meals often place disproportionate responsibility on women, especially working‑class women, to organise family‑wide dining. The pressure to deliver a “balanced” breakfast can generate shame, anxiety and disordered eating, as noted by nutritionist Laura Thomas and scholar Anne Murcott. The article highlights how these expectations reinforce gendered labour divisions in the home.Future Outlook: Towards Flexible, Intuitive EatingContemporary movements such as “intuitive eating” and the celebration of the snack as a legitimate food moment offer alternatives to rigid schedules. As writer Eli Davies suggests, embracing spontaneous, pleasure‑driven eating could gradually loosen the hold of the three‑square‑meals paradigm.

The Monaco Grand Prix: A Historic Race BeginsThe 2026 Monaco Grand Prix is underway with Kimi Antonelli securing pole position ahead of Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton. Mercedes leads the constructors' championship as the race begins in the iconic principality circuit, testing drivers' precision and nerve on the challenging streets of Monte Carlo.The Principality's Unique ChallengeMonaco, the creme de la creme of F1 events, presents a test different to the rest, and the one every driver wants on their palmares. The principality stages the most scenic event in the sport, where precision and bravery are paramount. With narrow streets, tight corners, and the unforgiving barriers mere inches away, Monaco demands absolute concentration from competitors.Starting Grid AnalysisThe grid is loaded with talent, featuring Kimi Antonelli on pole position, Max Verstappen alongside him, and Lewis Hamilton, a three-time winner in Monaco, in third. Charles Leclerc, the local boy, makes for a Ferrari second row, adding extra excitement for the home crowd. However, Liam Lawson has encountered problems with his Racing Bulls car, with what appears to be a power issue potentially forcing him to start from the pit lane.Team Dynamics and Championship ImplicationsThe Mercedes team finds themselves in the box seat, leading the constructors' championship, with it likely to be a battle between their drivers for the title. Meanwhile, McLaren celebrates a gala weekend, reflecting on their rich history in the sport. From Bruce McLaren's first win at Spa in 1968 to their seven constructors' titles between 1984 and 1998 under Ron Dennis's leadership, the team has a storied legacy at Monaco.Championship Battle IntensifiesGeorge Russell, after taking time to reset and regroup since Montreal, maintains he is unaffected by the setback in Canada. "In the past I've never really sort of believed in: 'This is going to determine my destiny.' I'm pleased that I did the job that I knew I was capable of and delivered in every moment when it was required," he stated. With Antonelli holding a significant buffer in the championship, Russell acknowledges it's "his to lose" as the season progresses.Race Predictions and Key FactorsAs the lights go out at 2pm UK time, all eyes will be on whether Antonelli can convert his pole position into his first career victory. Monaco's unique characteristics often favor experienced drivers who know how to manage tire degradation and fuel strategy. The tight circuit makes overtaking extremely challenging, meaning pit strategy and qualifying position play an even more crucial role than at other Grand Prix events.

The Lead England secured a 115-run victory over New Zealand in the first Test of their three-match series, concluding the match before lunch on day four at Lord's. England's Strong Performance New Zealand resumed on 55 for five, still 199 runs from their target, after a rain-affected third day. England's Josh Tongue quickly struck, getting Will Blundell lbw for just four in the first full over of the day. The Data Analysis Devon Conway and Glenn Phillips formed a crucial partnership of over 50 runs, steering New Zealand to 111-6. However, England's Ben Stokes removed Conway (41) thanks to a diving catch by Jacob Bethell at gully. The Impact Analysis Gus Atkinson brought England close to victory by dismissing Nathan Smith (four) and Kyle Jamieson (six), who chipped a loose delivery straight to Ben Duckett at midwicket. Phillips played steadily, ending with 44 not out from 51 balls. The Prediction England ultimately secured the win as Atkinson took his third wicket of the day – and fifth of the innings – by removing Matt Henry for a duck. This victory gives England a 1-0 lead in the series.

A phase‑3 trial of retatrutide, a once‑weekly triple‑hormone injection, showed patients with type 2 diabetes cut HbA1c by up to 1.9 percentage points and shed up to 15 % of body weight after 40 weeks.Triple‑Hormone Mechanism Sets Retatrutide ApartThe drug combines analogues of GLP‑1, GIP and glucagon, targeting appetite, glucose regulation and energy expenditure simultaneously. Unlike Ozempic or Wegovy (GLP‑1 only) and Mounjaro (GLP‑1 + GIP), the added glucagon activity aims to boost metabolic rate.Trial Numbers Reveal Double‑Digit HbA1c Cuts and 15% Weight Loss930 adults with type 2 diabetes, BMI ≥ 23, not on other diabetes meds.Randomised to 4 mg, 9 mg or 12 mg retatrutide or placebo for 40 weeks.HbA1c reduction: 1.7‑1.9 pp vs 0.8 pp placebo.Weight loss: 11.5‑15.3 % vs 2.6 % placebo.Improvements in cholesterol and blood pressure observed.Serious adverse events in 14 participants (including 2 on placebo); most side effects were mild gastrointestinal issues.Potential Shift in Diabetes‑Obesity Treatment LandscapeExperts say the dual impact on glycaemic control and weight could reshape management pathways. Dr Kath McCullough (Royal College of Physicians) called the results “life‑changing,” while Dr Marie Spreckley (University of Cambridge) cautioned that head‑to‑head data against existing agents are still needed.For health systems such as the NHS, a drug delivering both outcomes may reduce long‑term cardiovascular complications and associated costs, but pricing and safety profiles will drive adoption.Next Steps: Head‑to‑Head Comparisons and Long‑Term SafetyFurther phase‑3 studies are planned to compare retatrutide directly with semaglutide and tirzepatide. Regulators will scrutinise the balance of metabolic benefits against gastrointestinal adverse events before approval.