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The Rise of a New Spanish Tennis StarSpain is at it again. Just when tennis enthusiasts thought the Spanish dominance in men's tennis might be waning after Rafael Nadal's retirement, a new sensation has emerged. Rafael Jodar, the 19-year-old from Madrid, has completed a meteoric rise from being ranked around No. 700 in the world to becoming a seeded player at the French Open in just over a year. This unprecedented ascent has thrust him into the grand slam-winning conversation, adding to Spain's embarrassment of riches in men's tennis.The Jodar Phenomenon: From College Courts to Grand Slam ContenderJodar's journey is remarkable. A year ago, he was completing his freshman year at the University of Virginia, ranked outside the top 700. After winning several ATP Challenger titles, he decided to turn pro and forgo his final three years of college eligibility. He won his first main-level ATP match at this year's Australian Open, and now, after an almost unprecedented rise up the rankings, the 19-year-old will be among the 32 seeds when the French Open commences.Ironically, Jodar has stolen the mantle of the "next future champion" hype away from Brazilian João Fonseca, also 19, who was committed to play college tennis at Virginia with Jodar but instead decided to turn pro. One can only wonder if that college team, had it materialized, would have been among the best ever.Spain's Tennis Dynasty: Three Decades of DominanceTo have yet another player thrust into the grand slam-winning conversation adds to the utter embarrassment of riches Spain has enjoyed for more than three decades. Starting with Sergi Bruguera's back-to-back French Open titles in 1993 and 1994, Spanish men have enjoyed a nearly uninterrupted run of dominance with six different players winning grand slams.Consider this timeline of Spanish tennis excellence:1993-1994: Sergi Bruguera wins back-to-back French Open titles1998-2003: Carlos Moya wins French Open (1998) and reaches multiple other finals2003-2014: Rafael Nadal wins 14 French Open titles and 22 major championships overall2022-Present: Carlos Alcaraz wins 7 major titles, including his first at the 2022 US Open2026: Rafael Jodar becomes the latest Spanish player to be seeded at a grand slamThe only Open-era analog that comes to mind is Sweden's moment in the sport in the 1970s and 80s, with Björn Borg, Mats Wilander, and Stefan Edberg dominating men's tennis.The Spanish Method: Beyond Clay Court SpecialistsWith his ferocious hitting and aggressive posture constructing points, Jodar continues to put a nail in the coffin of the notion that Spanish players are primarily clay-court specialists. Nadal was unfairly burdened with the "he's great but only on clay" label very early, but his Wimbledon triumph in 2008 proved he could play on all surfaces. Alcaraz burst onto the scene as a fully formed all-court player, and now Jodar appears to be following in their footsteps.So how did Spain become such a powerhouse in the men's game? Many trace the origin story back to the early 1970s. The country's dictator Francisco Franco, inspired by Manolo Santana, the first Spaniard to win a grand slam, ordered the construction of thousands of red clay courts throughout Spain, literally building the infrastructure that laid the groundwork for what was to come.The Six Tenets of Spanish Tennis ExcellenceThough it took a generation, the coaching techniques and training regimens put in place 50 years ago in Spain have now become standard practice for players from around the world. The two coaches who were most instrumental in developing the Spanish brand of men's tennis in the 1980s and early 1990s were Pato Alvarez (now deceased), and Lluis Bruguera (the father of the aforementioned Sergi), who is in his 80s and still coaching.Both based in Barcelona, they developed a style of coaching that Chris Lewit, author of the book "The Secrets of Spanish Tennis," narrowed down to six tenets:Movement, footwork and balanceRacket speed and weapon buildingConsistencyDefensePhysical conditioningThe importance of sufferingThe Philosophy of Suffering: The Spanish Mental EdgeIt is this act of suffering, of fighting through and retaining a positive mental outlook in the midst of the mini-crises that exist in every match, that is the most significant throughline among all the recent Spanish champions. Nadal famously said that "you have to learn how to live with these kind of moments, and also to enjoy this suffering". Alcaraz echoed that with his view that "you have to find the joy in suffering".While Nadal was coached at home in Mallorca with his Uncle Toni and Alcaraz in an academy setting under his former coach Juan Carlos Ferrero, the hallmarks of Spanish tennis seamlessly moved from one generation to the next. This focus on the "suffering" and on the point construction has allowed the transition away from the clay-only successes of Bruguera to the all-court prowess that Alcaraz and now Jodar possess.It is this generational hand-off of not just the physical attributes and strategies necessary for triumph but the mental fortitude that is apparent with Jodar. Speaking of Nadal, Jodar said, "He was, I think, the best mentality wise. He never gave up in a match. He stayed there for every moment that the match was bringing him and tried to play his best tennis with the things he was doing throughout those days. I think watching him inspired me when I was younger."Global Influence and the Changing Nature of TennisIf the Spanish method has been such an incredible success then why haven't more countries followed their lead? Many countries and players already have tried. A teenaged Andy Murray became so inspired by the Spanish style that he spent significant time training in Barcelona under the tutelage of Alvarez, and he has spoken of how huge an impact those years in Spain had on his development into a three-time grand slam champion.Jose Higueras, a former Spanish pro who was one of the first players to emerge under the new Spanish system in the 1970s, imported much of the program to the United States when he started working with US pros in the 1990s. He wanted to bring that clay-court attitude to the American style of play, which was usually focused on a big serve and forehand. And it yielded immediate results. Higueras coached Michael Chang to his sole grand slam title at the 1989 French Open and then worked with Jim Courier as the coach played a pivotal role in the last golden era of American tennis.One can implement all the correct protocols and latest methods, but it's all for naught if the attitude and, more importantly, talent isn't there. Some is ingrained; some is just luck. Spain has been blessed with Nadal and Alcaraz, two extraordinary athletic specimens with an unusual combination of strength and reflexes. And in addition to Jodar, 20-year-old Martin Landaluce is another Spaniard on the rise making significant noise.The sport – much to the chagrin of the old-school traditionalists who prefer a serve-and-volley style – has also changed over the last few decades into a slower game with the more homogenous court speeds. Gone are the fast grass courts of years past. Most hard courts have been slowed down, creating the perfect conditions for the Spanish style to thrive.The Future of Spanish Tennis: A Conveyor Belt of ChampionsWhatever the reasons for their dominance, the Spanish conveyor belt of champions shows no sign of slowing down. With Jodar joining the ranks of Nadal and Alcaraz, and with Landaluce also making noise, Spain's tennis dynasty appears set to continue. The Spanish method – emphasizing movement, consistency, defense, physical conditioning, and most importantly, finding joy in suffering – has proven to be a winning formula that has produced multiple generations of champions.As Jodar prepares for his French Open debut as a seeded player, tennis fans around the world will be watching to see if he can continue the Spanish tradition of excellence. One thing is certain: Spain's school of suffering has forged yet another star, and the tennis world will be better for it.

The Match OverviewMexico secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Ghana in a World Cup warm-up match held at Cuauhtemoc Stadium in Puebla. The match provided a glimpse of the excitement building less than three weeks before Mexico opens the tournament as a cohost. Despite Puebla not being among Mexico's World Cup host cities, fans created an electric atmosphere throughout the night.Key Match MomentsThe Mexican team set the tone early with Brian Gutierrez curling home from the edge of the box just two minutes into the match. Teenage Liga MX sensation Gil Mora, making his first appearance since November after returning from injury, struck the post in the first half. Alexis Vega had a header ruled out for offside before the break. Substitute Guillermo Martinez sealed the victory in the 54th minute, finishing off a counterattack to double Mexico's lead.FIFA Sanctions and Fan ResponseThe match was notable for the visible empty sections in the stadium, closed under FIFA sanctions linked to discriminatory chants at previous national team matches. Despite these restrictions, Mexican fans in green shirts created an electric atmosphere, with repeated Mexican waves rolling around the stadium throughout the match.Team Preparation and Coach's PerspectiveCoach Javier Aguirre used the friendly to continue evaluating players ahead of naming Mexico's final World Cup squad on June 1. Europe-based players Luis Chavez, Edson Alvarez and Jorge Sanchez made second-half appearances after recently joining training camp. Aguirre praised the effort shown by players battling for places in the final squad, acknowledging the complexity of selecting the team.World Cup OutlookThe victory provides a confidence boost for Mexico as they prepare to host the World Cup. The performance showcased the team's attacking potential and defensive solidity. With Aguirre continuing to fine-tune his squad, Mexico appears to be building momentum heading into the tournament where they will face the pressure of cohosting responsibilities.

The Winning ‘People’s Tree’ Project Secures National Trust CommissionHelix Arts and George King Architects were announced as the winners of a public‑vote‑driven National Trust commission on Saturday. Their proposal, titled ‘The People’s Tree’, will repurpose preserved wood from the felled Sycamore Gap tree into a multi‑layered “living archive”.Project Blueprint: Living Archive from the Felled Sycamore Gap TreeThe initiative combines participatory storytelling, sound recordings and sculptural elements. Visitors and online contributors from Northumberland and across the UK will submit reflections on their relationship with trees, which will be stored in a national sound archive. Sections of the wood will become “seed pods” for digital recordings, a soundscape derived from growth‑ring data, and co‑created artworks for exhibitions and workshops.Numbers Behind the Initiative49 “trees of hope” saplings will be planted across the UK as part of the wider legacy programme.Public engagement is set to begin summer 2026 with completion targeted for autumn 2027.The commission was chosen from a shortlist of six proposals, receiving the highest combined public and judges’ score.The original tree was illegally felled in July 2025, prompting nationwide grief.Broader Cultural and Environmental ImpactThe project moves beyond a static memorial, fostering a dialogue between communities and nature. By embedding recordings in the wood and creating interactive installations along the full stretch of Hadrian’s Wall, it aims to increase access to nature for diverse groups, especially those historically underserved. The National Trust notes that shoots are already sprouting from the original stump for the third consecutive year, underscoring the site’s regenerative potential.Looking Ahead: Community Engagement and Legacy Through 2027 and BeyondBeyond the physical installations, a dedicated website will enable international participation, and a combined sound sculpture and time capsule near the original site will preserve the archive for future visitors. Annie Reilly, public engagement director at the National Trust, highlighted that the proposal “puts a real conversation between people and the tree at its heart”. The project is expected to shape how heritage sites respond to loss, emphasizing resilience, reflection and collective storytelling.

The Stalemate in US-Iran Peace Talks Iran's mission to the United Nations has accused Washington of 'excessive demands' that are pushing peace talks towards collapse. The development comes amid reports that the US administration is preparing for strikes on Iran if negotiations fail. Pakistan's Mediation Efforts Pakistan's army chief, Asim Munir, visited Tehran and met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. They 'exchanged views on the latest diplomatic efforts and initiatives to prevent escalation of tensions.' The US Stance on Iran US President Donald Trump confirmed that he would not attend his son's wedding and would stay in Washington due to 'circumstances pertaining to government.' This fueled speculation that the situation had entered a sensitive stage. The Road to a Potential Breakthrough Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei cautioned that Munir's visit did not mean 'we have reached a turning point or a decisive situation,' as 'deep and significant' disagreements remained. The Diplomatic Efforts Al Jazeera's Tehran correspondent reported that Araghchi had held phone calls with his Turkish, Iraqi, Qatari, and Omani counterparts, as well as with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, about the state of the peace talks. The Regional Impact The ongoing regional war has affected the global economy due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan's Prime Minister and Foreign Minister are set to discuss efforts to resolve the crisis during their visit to China, Iran's top trading partner.

The Lead: A New Kind of Celebrity Hot SeatThe Assembly brings together a 28‑strong panel of autistic, neurodivergent and learning‑disabled interviewers to grill high‑profile guests for up to three hours. The result is a mix of raw emotion, humour and unexpected intimacy that has quickly become ITV's most talked‑about chatshow. How "The Assembly" Merges Neurodiversity with Celebrity InterviewsThe format, adapted from France’s Les Rencontres du Papotin, opens each episode with a clear rule‑set: no question is off‑limits and every guest must answer honestly. Rylan Clark’s first appearance set the tone with blunt queries like “Are they your real teeth?” and “Did you ever consider having a real suntan?”. Subsequent guests—including Danny Dyer, David Tennant, Jade Thirlwall and Stephen Fry—have faced probing topics ranging from personal trauma to sexual preferences, often leaving them laughing, crying or both. Viewership, Awards and International Roll‑outHalf‑million YouTube views for Danny Dyer’s debut episode, the series’ most‑watched clip.Series nominated for a Bafta and winner of an RTS award.Commissioned in 20 countries across Europe, North America and Australasia.Three‑hour recording windows give guests space for genuine connection, a stark contrast to the typical 10‑minute segment on traditional chatshows. Why the Show Is Shaking Up the Talk‑Show LandscapeBy handing editorial control to neurodivergent interviewers, the programme challenges the “sound‑bite” culture of mainstream TV. Viewers report increased awareness of autism and learning disabilities, while celebrities appreciate the chance to be seen beyond PR‑driven narratives. The blend of entertainment and representation has created a “cult following” that even attracted selfies from Bafta‑winning stars. What’s Next for "The Assembly" and the Wider TV IndustrySeason 2 has already featured Stephen Fry, whose outrageous questions sparked viral moments. Producers hint at future political guests such as Keir Starmer and Tony Blair, and a possible spin‑off with former Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. If the current trajectory holds, the format could inspire a new wave of inclusive programming, prompting rival broadcasters to experiment with longer‑form, unscripted interviews that prioritize authenticity over commercial sell‑through.

The LeadGame of Thrones actress Hannah Murray shares her experience of being sectioned in a psychiatric hospital in her new memoir "The Make-Believe: A Memoir of Magic and Madness." The actress describes her mental health journey and the experience of being involuntarily admitted under the Mental Health Act.The Hospital ExperienceThe door to the room opens. A man enters the room. He is a Black man, bald and overweight. He is dressed in uniform. Blue uniform, a blue lanyard that reads "NHS". But I know Steve, the leader of the organisation that introduced me to magic, is a magician. I know he can appear in disguise.I approach the man and try to kiss him.He does not let me kiss him. Then no. It is not Steve.The man has brought me a plate of toast. He has brought me a cup of tea. I add sugar to the tea, which I would never have done in my former life, but a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down!I am a Ritual Master. And this, drinking my own urine, is a powerful ritual. This is all I need now to survive … I will never need to eat again. I survive on liquids and air and lightI do not eat the toast. I drink the tea. I am alone in the room again and I urinate into the cup and drink that too.I am a Ritual Master. And this, drinking my own urine, is a powerful ritual. This is all I need now to survive. It is the most potent of potions I can drink. I am a self-contained, utterly self-sufficient being. I will never need to eat again. I survive on liquids and air and light.I decide to explore outside the room. Outside my sanctuary. He has not come. So maybe I need to go searching for him …The Phone CallTime jumps. I am in a corridor lit by overhead strip lights. The electric light is pale yellow in tone. I am sat on one of three chairs in a row against the wall. The chairs are purple, curved plastic. I am still waiting for him to appear.There are two doors in front of me. One is the door to the blue room with the blue sofa and chair. Behind the other door is an office of some kind, and there is a woman in there, shuffling papers and talking on the phone.The woman comes out of the office. She is holding out my phone. My only possession now – the one artefact from my previous life. There is someone she wants me to speak to.Him.When I hold the phone to my ear, I hear a voice I recognise.But the voice belongs to my mother."Hannah?" she says. "Where are you? What's going on?"There is distress in her voice. Her voice is trembling with pain and anxiety.I do not want to hear it.This is a test. A horrible test, certainly, but one that I can pass. They are trying to tempt me back into the human. They are trying to lure me back into the past.I hang up the phone.But, after a moment, it starts to ring. The word Mum lights up the screen."Talk to her," says the woman.I answer the call.My mother sounds different now. Calmer. She asks again what's going on but gently, even cheerfully. I tell her everything's OK. That I'm fine. I tell her not to worry. I'm in a good place.This is the last time I will ever hear her voice, I think. This is the way I say goodbye.The DiagnosisThey tell me I am being sectioned.The words jar with my beliefs."Section 2 … the Mental Health Act … 28 days … right to appeal … "I cock my head.This does not fit at all. It does not fit in the world of Steve, of Ritual Master, of Shambhala and the invention of magic.I am not concerned. I am concerned only with the energy I can feel spiralling up through my body and the voices I can hear in my head.I pace the hospital corridors, delivering a tearful monologue, delivering the greatest performance of my life. A phrase comes to me. The Girl With All the Gifts. The title of a post-apocalyptic horror film released in 2016, starring Gemma Arterton.I am a magician. I am an actress. I am a writer. I have superhuman strength. I can fly. Anything that can be imagined, I can perform it. Every skill and every ability is mine.The film came out as a warning, and a prophecy.And because of me, the apocalypse has been averted.I am the saviour of the planet. I am the girl with all the gifts.The Journey to RecoveryIt was very hard, the journey to get here. It took 27 years. The path was twisting and full of setbacks, there were challenges and so much pain. There were times I wanted to give up. It was very hard. Everyone will have to make their own journey, and their journeys will be their own, unique as snowflakes or fingerprints. That is the beauty of it, the joy of it. Everyone has to figure it out for themselves.But I have laid the groundwork. I have walked the path. It starts with the energy healing, and it goes on and on through the seven dimensions, through increasingly magical planes. It goes on and on until you meet your soulmate, like I met mine.I was in a TV show called Game of Thrones, hidden in plain sight in the midst of a cultural phenomenon. I, the key to the world's salvation, wore the face of a character called Gilly, but really I played every role. Then I worked on a film called Detroit in Boston. David Benioff and Dan Weiss and Kathryn Bigelow were the four horsemen of the apocalypse. Numbers are irrelevant. Three counts as four. David and Dan and Kathryn cast me in the roles that brought about my destiny. The end and beginning of the world.I am the Ur-actress. I am every actress. Every performance ever given has been animated by my energy, my talent, by the gestures and facial expressions I am performing here and now.The Memoir and BeyondThis is an edited extract from The Make-Believe: A Memoir of Magic and Madness by Hannah Murray, published by Cornerstone (£18.99). To support the Guardian, order your copy at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply.Hannah Murray will be in conversation with Jessie Cave at Kings Place in London on 5 June.

Deadly Blast at Liushenyu Mine Shuts Down Operations State media Xinhua reported that a gas explosion ripped through the Liushenyu mine in Qinyuan county, Shanxi province on Friday, killing at least 90 people. The blast struck while 247 workers were underground, making it the deadliest mining disaster in China in more than a decade. Casualties, Workforce and Production Figures Highlight Scale Deaths confirmed: 90 Workers on shift at time of explosion: 247 Shanxi’s 2025 coal output: > 1 billion tonnes (≈ one‑third of national production) China’s share of global coal consumption: > 50% The province accounts for almost a third of China’s total coal extraction, meaning any shutdown reverberates through national energy supplies. Safety Lapses and Environmental Stakes Prompt Nationwide Scrutiny China’s coal mines have long been labeled among the world’s deadliest due to weak regulation, corruption, and inadequate safety standards. The explosion followed a carbon‑monoxide alert that reportedly indicated gas levels exceeding safe limits. CGTN confirmed the mine’s overseer has been arrested, and President Xi Jinping ordered all regions to intensify accident‑prevention measures. Beyond the human toll, the incident raises concerns about China’s ability to balance its status as the world’s largest coal producer with its commitments to reduce greenhouse‑gas emissions. The disaster could accelerate calls for a faster transition to renewable energy sources. Tightened Oversight Likely to Reshape China’s Coal Sector Analysts expect the central government will impose stricter safety inspections and possibly limit production at high‑risk mines. Potential outcomes include: Increased funding for modern monitoring equipment to detect hazardous gases. Revised penalties for safety violations, aiming to deter corruption. Accelerated investment in clean‑energy projects as part of China’s carbon‑neutrality roadmap. While short‑term coal output may dip, the long‑term effect could be a more regulated, safer industry that aligns with global climate goals.

Bernardo Silva: A One‑Man Utility Engine for Manchester CityThe Guardian’s tribute paints Silva as more than a footballer – a “time‑travelling, shapeshifting superhero” whose relentless work‑rate and technical brilliance defined a decade of success at Manchester City. His imminent exit marks the end of an era where a single player could seamlessly occupy every role on the pitch.The Unprecedented Versatility That Redefined the Modern MidfielderSilva routinely shifted from right‑back to playmaker, winger to libero within a single match, often completing a full positional rotation in a single move. This chameleon‑like adaptability allowed Pep Guardiola to experiment with fluid formations, turning defensive recoveries into instant attacks.Numbers Behind the Legend: Appearances, Goals, Assists and Stamina Records459 appearances for City76 goals and 77 assistsRecorded a Premier League distance of 13.7 km in a single match (City 2‑1 Liverpool, Jan 2019) – a league recordTwo decisive goals in the 2023 Champions League semi‑final against Real MadridHow Silva’s Style Shaped City’s Tactical DominanceHis ability to find space, execute split‑second passes and sustain high‑intensity runs enabled City to:Secure the first 100‑point Premier League seasonAchieve a domestic clean sweep of trophiesWin a treble (league, FA Cup, Champions League) and later a fourth consecutive league titleSilva’s “double engine” stamina meant he rarely needed substitution, giving Guardiola a reliable option to maintain pressure throughout 90 minutes.What Lies Ahead for Silva and the Premier League LandscapeWith Silva likely moving to a sunnier climate, his departure opens a strategic void that rivals will scramble to fill. Teams may seek to develop similarly versatile midfielders or adjust tactics to compensate for the loss of a player who could “play every position in a single move.” For Silva, the next chapter could involve a league where his unique skill set reshapes expectations for midfield endurance and adaptability.

The Premier League 2025-26 Season Review The 2025-26 Premier League season has come to a close, with several teams exceeding expectations and others falling short. In this review, we'll take a closer look at the standout teams, including Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Bournemouth. Arsenal's Dominant Season Arsenal fans have a lot to celebrate as their team won the league title. The team's manager, Mikel, received praise for his ability to get the team over the line, despite some critics questioning his tactics. The team's defense was particularly impressive, with 19 clean sheets. Stars: Raya, Gabriel, Saliba, and Rice were consistent performers throughout the season. Flops: Martinelli struggled to find form, scoring only one league goal, while Madueke lacked composure in front of goal. Aston Villa's Europa League Success Aston Villa had a remarkable season, culminating in a joyous party in Istanbul after their Europa League final victory. The team's manager, Unai Emery, received praise for his ability to get the team to perform when it mattered. Stars: McGinn was a standout player, with his leadership and game management being particularly impressive. Flops: None mentioned. Bournemouth's Historic Achievement Bournemouth made history by qualifying for Europe for the first time. The team's manager, Andoni Iraola, was praised for his genius and the team's energetic and exciting brand of football. Stars: Alex Scott, Junior Kroupi, and Rayan were spectacular performers. Flops: None mentioned. The Verdict The 2025-26 Premier League season was filled with surprises and standout performances. Arsenal's title win, Aston Villa's Europa League success, and Bournemouth's historic achievement made for an exciting conclusion to the season.