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    I refused to let horror car crash that took my legs ruin me – now I’m world record holder, says Strictly’s Billy Monger

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    “BILLY MONGER . . . you are an Ironman.”Those words are still sinking in for a 25-year-old who has already beaten all odds to become a world-record holder.Billy Monger is a double-amputee after a shocking Formula 4 racing accident weeks before his 18th birthdayCredit: Simon JonesBilly training for the Ironman’s 112-mile bike ride across volcanic terrainCredit: Daniel Loveday/Comic ReliefThat’s a world-record holder in triathlon’s most gruelling event, the Kona Ironman World Championships in Hawaii.A 2.4-mile swim in jellyfish and shark-infested waters.A 112-mile bike ride in treacherous crosswinds across volcanic terrain. Then a marathon, 26.2miles of running.And, in case you hadn’t noticed, Billy is a double-amputee after losing one leg just below the knee and the other above the knee in a shocking Formula 4 racing accident weeks before his 18th birthday.Read more on Billy MongerBut his time of 14 hours, 23 minutes and 56 seconds smashed the world record for a double amputee by more than TWO HOURS.So was that drive always there, or was it his accident that changed him?Billy, who was raising money for Comic Relief, says: “I remember after my accident being like, ‘I’m the same 17, 18-year-old kid that I always was, wanting to be a Formula One world champion’.“There’s no getting away from it, that does affect things. You do have to grow up quicker.Most read in Athletics“Learning to deal with that adversity all of a sudden, other adversity you face in your life doesn’t seem that daunting.”So the jellyfish stings suffered on the swim are now something you just brush off?Cheryl praises inspirational racer Billy Monger’s fundraising in rare TV appearance“Yeah, well, that is what it is really!”In the brilliant film of his year of training, Billy can even joke with his coaches about sharks not being interested in him as they’d be better off chasing someone with legs.I don’t think Billy looks at things in a “normal” way, but that’s probably because he’s not normal. And that’s far from an insult and nothing to do with him being an amputee.He adds: “Because of the accident, I’m more curious about what I’m still capable of.“I don’t want to go, ‘Oh well, this bad thing happened to me, so I’m just gonna feel negative about it’.‘About to pass out’“If I did that, it’s quite obvious what my life would look like and I didn’t really fancy a piece of that.”Instead, he fancied a piece of Hawaii — not grass-skirts and sunshine but 14-plus hours of endurance racing.He says: “It’s seen to be the hardest Ironman, so looking back, I was a bit nuts for signing up.”Because of the accident, I’m more curious about what I’m still capable ofBillyHe had done only “a bit of doggy-paddle for rehab” and had not run more than 5km without pain before the training started.It is normally a four-year plan for an Ironman. Billy did it in one.His journey before is just as remarkable.Billy had been on the road to F1 as a prodigiously talented and dedicated karting racer before the horror crash at Donington Park in 2017.Billy put in hundreds of hours of trainingCredit: 2024 Comic ReliefBilly in 2017 after his horror crash at Donington ParkCredit: Rex FeaturesBut since then he appeared on Strictly Come Dancing’s Christmas special, BBC’s Race Across The World and covers F1 for Channel 4.Billy’s previous Comic Relief challenge, a 140-mile walking, kayaking and cycling trip across the UK in 2021, raised £3.2million.But an Ironman? Kona?!“Mad, isn’t it?” he says, reflecting on going from learning to walk as a double amputee to competing in a world championship triathlon. “But one step at a time.”His steps included needing four different sets of prosthetics, “eight spare legs”.Modest as well, he even blushes when you compliment him.But there is such a steely determination in his eyes, perhaps he always knew he would complete it?“No way,” he says. “I feared not getting across that line plenty of times.Get to race day knowing you’ve done all you can. Be the best version of yourself and that’s all that mattersBilly“To train for something like that, you have to shape every decision around your training.”Billy did the vast majority of his hundreds of hours of training alone and stump health was a serious concern, despite having a prosthetics specialist on hand.Put simply, sores and blisters from pressure and rubbing on his legs could put him back in a wheelchair for weeks, meaning no chance of getting to Kona.Even after all the hundreds of hours’ training, there were still doubts during the event.He says: “My body was doing things that I’d never seen it do before. Then you see someone passed out on the side of the road and it just adds to that anticipation.“The shaking, the ‘Am I about to pass out here?’.”But after a year dedicated to helping others, he wasn’t about to quit.He adds: “I didn’t want to let other people down.“The message was, get to race day knowing you’ve done all you can. Be the best version of yourself and that’s all that matters.”Billy barely remembers the moment the PA announcer screamed “You are an Ironman” at the finish, seconds before he collapsed into the hoardings.Fuel for the fire“But he can now watch it back time and time again as he is forever an Ironman. The Iron Monger, if you will.But Billy still doesn’t feel like this challenge is complete as it is all to raise money for Comic Relief and the community projects the charity supports, such as running clubs, food banks and care centres that Billy visited during his epic year.I ask if it has sunk in, what he and his family have achieved?He replies: “In ways it has, but in ways it hasn’t.READ MORE SUN STORIES“Comic Relief and Red Nose Day on Friday was the fuel for the fire, so it feels like the job is only half done.” More

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      Fans baffled as Paul Merson ‘dresses like a lemon’ for Sky Sports Soccer Saturday return… but there’s a reason for it

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      PAUL MERSON left fans baffled after dressing “like a lemon” on his Soccer Saturday comeback.The Sky Sports pundit made his return to the programme for this weekend’s Premier League action.Paul Merson wore an incredible outfit on his return to Sky Sports’ Soccer SaturdayCredit: X / PaulMerseFans were left baffled by the choice as they reacted on social mediaCredit: Sky SportsMerson, 56, had been absent from the show due to his commitment to BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing.However, it appeared that he had forgotten to swap the glitzy ballroom outfits, and he took his spot on the panel.The former Arsenal star wore a bright yellow suit, with a sparkly top and a huge rosette, which left many viewers baffled on social media.One fan commented: “He really brought the sunshine to the studio!”READ MORE ON SPORTA second wrote: “He is just sensational.”A third posted: “He’s looking dashing.”A fourth said: “A man of his word!! Nice suit by the way.”A fifth joked: “He is dressed like a lemon.”Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSAnother added: “I thought he was getting married.”However, there was a reason for his choice of a more flamboyant outfit. Paul Merson AXED from Strictly after shock dance off with series favouriteMerson wore the outfit while appearing on Strictly Come DancingCredit: PASoccer Saturday host Simon Thomas asked him to wear the yellow suit on his return.Merson followed through with the request as he stunned in the studio.He insisted he would be wearing the suit for the whole show as he did not bring “any other clobber”.The retired footballer was the fourth celebrity to leave Strictly after he lost the dance-off to JLS star JB Gill and his partner Amy Dowden.During his time on the show, he danced to the football anthem Vindaloo and Pitball’s Fireball.Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Moment Jamie Redknapp realises Paul Merson has just ruined Tottenham with hilarious Strictly prediction live on Sky

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      PAUL MERSON believes he has more chance of winning Strictly Come Dancing than Tottenham do of winning a trophy this season, which prompted a hilarious reaction from Jamie Redknapp.His bold assessment comes after Ange Postecoglou proclaimed that he “always wins” things in his second season at a club.Ange Postecoglou doubled down on his claims that he will win a trophy with Tottenham this seasonCredit: RexBut Paul Merson believes he has a better chance of winning Strictly Come Dancing this yearCredit: Sky SportsThe comments sparked a hilarious reaction from Jamie RedknappCredit: Sky SportsFans found it hilariousCredit: Sky SportsThe Spurs boss faced the music after seeing his side lose 1-0 at home to Arsenal, who were without both Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard.In pre-season, the 59-year-old had said he “usually” wins things in his second season, with the last time Spurs won a trophy being back in 2008.However, defeat to their bitter north London rivals has left them with just one win from four Premier League games. Postecoglou issued a defiant response following the game when interviewed by Sky Sports, saying: “I’ll correct myself: I don’t usually win things, I always win things in my second year. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Nothing has changed. I don’t say things I don’t believe in.”Sky Sport’s punditry panel for the feisty North London derby included ex-Spurs star Redknapp and Arsenal icon Merson, who started his Strictly Come Dancing journey on Saturday night.Asked about Postecoglou’s comments, the 56-year-old said: “I like Ange, I like him. But I’ve got more chance of winning Strictly [than Ange winning something in his second season].”Fans couldn’t help but notice Redknapp’s reaction to the comments as he turned away with an almost disgusted face.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSOne fan said: “Redknapp’s face here is priceless.”A second said: “Redknapp’s face,” alongside a picture of Redknapp looking stunned. Ange Postecoglou appears to promise Tottenham fans a trophy THIS SEASON in feisty interview after Arsenal loss, X Sky Sports PLAnother said: “Comedy gold. Redknapp’s face.”A fourth added a picture of Redknapp’s face and shared a series of crying emojis with it.Tottenham currently sit 13th in the league table, while they kick off their EFL cup campaign on Wednesday against giant-killing experts Coventry.Meanwhile, their Europa League campaign starts on September 26.On the other hand, Arsenal’s win means they have remained unbeaten so far and sit second in the table.They launch their Champions League campaign on Thursday of this week, while their League Cup starts by hosting Bolton on September 25.Merson began his Strictly journey on Saturday eveningCredit: PAArsenal ratings vs Spurs as Gabriel is the hero in feisty North London derbyGABRIEL headed in the only goal of the game as a depleted Arsenal snatched all three points in the North London Derby.Here’s how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield rated the Gunners players…DAVID RAYA – 8/10Commanded his area well, and was a safe pair of hands throughout the game. Another great showing in what has been a spectacular start for the Spanish stopper. JURRIEN TIMBER – 7Did well from an attacking perspective, charging down the left hand side on various occasions. Solid defensively too against Spurs’ flying right side of Johnson and Porro.Some would argue he should’ve been sent off for a challenge on Pedro Porro in the first half, but he escaped despite squaring up to Vicario in the aftermath.WILLIAM SALIBA – 8A really good recovery challenge in the first half to deny Dominic Solanke, despite being booked early on.You can always count on Saliba to put in a solid display, and he didn’t disappoint today with fantastic passing out from the back too. GABRIEL – 9A fantastic defensive showing throughout, reinforced with a towering header inside the box to give his side the lead from a set piece (shock). Has formed an impeccable partnership with Saliba, personified by their heartwarming celebration together after the opener. He’s the man. BEN WHITE – 6Gave away the ball in a dangerous position in the first half, with Solanke failing to capitalise and had a tough first half against the quick feet of Heung Min-Son.Was not able to demonstrate the dangerous right-hand side overlap we saw work so effectively last season, but wasn’t threatened in the second 45.JORGINHO – 4Struggled to replace the suspended Declan Rice for this North London derby, whom the Gunners really missed.A tough task, but didn’t come close to matching Rice’s intensity or ability to drive the ball up the pitch which left Arsenal weak in the forward areas.THOMAS PARTEY – 5Struggled in transition with Jorginho alongside him, another player who felt the full force of no Rice and Odegaard.Not fast enough with or without the ball, and will need to perk his ideas up for City next week. GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6Looked like a bright spark with his running and forward movement, but was let down by his end product or lack thereof.Worked really really hard throughout, just looks short of confidence in the last actions. LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6Dropping deeper into more of a midfield role than he’s used to today, it should be noted that he did a job for the team when they needed him. Not the flying efficiency machine we have seen him be from the bench, but his versatility will be needed this season it seems. BUKAYO SAKA – 7Didn’t make the kind of impact on the game we are used to seeing from the brilliant Bukayo Saka, and looked less of a threat without Martin Odegaard to combine with. Did some really good defensive work nonetheless, and delivered the perfect corner to claim the assist for Gabriel’s opener. KAI HAVERTZ – 6A good header in the first half was saved well by Vicario in the spurs net – actually made more clearances (3) than he managed shots on target (2) in the first 45. Was a handful for the Spurs defence, but largely nullified by the pace and power of Mickey Van de Ven and Cristian Romero.  More

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      Jermaine Jenas will NOT work for TNT Sports this month after he is sacked by BBC over ‘unsolicited texts’

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      JERMAINE JENAS will NOT be working for TNT Sports this month following his axing from The BBC.SunSport exclusively revealed this week that the former Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur and England midfielder has been fired from the national broadcaster due to alleged “inappropriate behaviour”.Jermaine Jenas has been axed by the BBC over alleged “inappropriate behaviour”Credit: GETTYJenas’ Beeb axing has raised questions over his future with TNT SportsCredit: PAJenas is currently not slated to be on TNT Sports for the next few weeksCredit: GettyJenas was sacked after a female member of staff on The One Show claimed she received “unsolicited texts” from the 41-year-old.The Beeb have launched a probe into the allegations, which have raised questions about his punditry duties with TNT.And according to The Mirror, TNT currently don’t have Jenas “pencilled in for games over the next few weeks”.TNT have yet to release a statement on the allegations made against Jenas, who was part of their broadcast team for Liverpool’s trip to Ipswich last Saturday.READ MORE ON JERMAINE JENASThe allegations against Jenas have likely ended his dream of succeeding Gary Lineker as Match of the Day host.Jenas’ axing comes just weeks after the Beeb announced an independent review into its workplace culture in light of the Strictly Come Dancing scandal.A well-placed source told The Sun: “This is a categorical nightmare for the BBC.”Complaints were raised concerning Jermaine’s behaviour.Most read in FootballJermaine Jenas is understood to be “devastated” by his BBC axingCredit: GETTY”After some immediate routine enquiries, the decision was taken to take him off air, and terminate his contract.”The BBC’s new Director of Sport Alex Kay-Jelski has been heavily involved in this whole process, and is adamant that his new house is firmly in order, and there are no skeletons.Jermaine Jenas SACKED by BBC from Match of the Day & The One Show over ‘inappropriate behaviour’”At present, the feeling is he won’t be back on the BBC.”Jenas was live on talkSPORT when news of his sacking broke, although he declined to provide an in-depth comment on his dismissal.The married dad-of-four said “I can’t really talk about it. As you can probably see, I’m not happy about it.”But currently as it stands I’m going to have to let the lawyers deal with it.”There’s two sides… that’s all I can say now.”The retired midfielder later added: “I’m not happy about this situation.”I’m going to be speaking to my lawyers about it, is all I can say right now.” More

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      Former wonderkid, 28, quit football for Strictly Come Dancing after rainbow flick over Man Utd ace in training

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      KAI WIDDRINGTON’S fancy footwork extends well past the dancefloor.The Strictly Come Dancing star, 28, decided against following his dad into football as he swapped his boots for tap shoes.Kai Widdrington poses with dance partner Helen SkeltonCredit: GettyWiddrington’s twinkle toes could have been put to use in footballCredit: RexThe Strictly star was on trial for Southampton’s academyCredit: PAAnd one current Manchester United ace may be glad he did after Widdrington, who was competing against him at Southampton’s academy, embarrassed him in training.Kai – the son of Aldershot boss Tommy Widdrington – told talkSPORT’s Hawksbee and Jacobs show: “That was the best thing that happened to me you know.”I always use the analogy of Billy Elliot, I mean my dad’s from the North East right and I’m telling my dad at 12 years old.”I got a contract offer from Southampton to be a left-back and I’m a right-footed left-back so I could play with both feet.READ MORE FOOTBALL”So I was half decent right and I was quite quick and I turned it down to dance with the British champion. Bearing in mind at this time I wasn’t very good, but apparently she fancied me right.”So I was like ‘yeah go on then!'”CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSWiddrington’s competition for a full-back spot was United flier Luke Shaw, also 28.He revealed to the Daily Mail: “I remember rainbow flicking Luke Shaw once in training.Most read in FootballStrictly fans can’t believe Kai Widdrington’s ‘real age’ after it’s revealed on the show “I’d never done that in my life, I was on trial wearing blades on an astroturf and getting rinsed, so I rainbow flicked.”He’s probably not bothered now on quarter of a million pounds a week at Manchester United!”Kai’s brother Theo plays under their former footballer father with the Shots.But unlike Billy Elliot, he had plenty of support from his dad.He added: “The tipping point for me was Sunday football was obviously on a Sunday and [dancing] competitions were on a Sunday. So I had to choose basically and I just loved dancing that little bit more.”The conversation I had with my old man was like ‘listen Dad, I just love dancing that little bit more’ and to be fair to him, I was never worried to tell him. That’s how I knew it was going to be OK.”You know, during the week where he’d be training with Salisbury or wherever else he was, he would drive me two hours to have an hour lesson then drive me back, he was the most supportive dad.”He was and wasn’t the Billy Elliot dad!”Luke Shaw came through Southampton’s youth ranksCredit: Action Images – ReutersDad Tommy added: “Kai has no regrets about football. He is Premier League in terms of what he is doing.READ MORE SUN STORIES”He was world champion at 14 in Latin American dancing. He could have signed for Saints when we moved to the south. The bloke who was left back at the time was Luke Shaw!”I remember them saying to me when he went on trial ‘I am not sure he is better than the one we have got (Shaw) but we will keep him.'”Who are these famous footballers? More

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      Strictly star Kai Widdrington backs Sun’s Footie For All campaign giving grassroots game a huge boost

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      WHEN Strictly’s Kai Widdrington was 12 he had to make a choice — football or dance.At 14 he was a world Latin American dance champion, so clearly he made the right decision.Strictly pro dancer Kai Widdrington returns to his football rootsCredit: Simon Jones – The SunHe visited Littleton Junior FC and voiced his support for The Sun’s Footie For All campaignCredit: Simon Jones – The SunBut he still remembers his time on the pitch with pride, and wowed a group of kids with his football skills thanks to The Sun. Littleton Junior FC put Kai — who was once in the academy at Southampton — through his paces as they celebrated a £1,000 grant from our Footie For All campaign with Tesco, which is giving grassroots football a huge boost.Kai told The Sun: “Football has always been a part of my life and to see younger generations still loving it is incredible.“Each of these kids is having the best time, and it makes me nostalgic for my years playing grassroots football. It would be criminal for these sessions not to be available to anyone who wants to play.”READ MORE ON THE CAMPAIGNThe Latin and ballroom star, 28, was joined by his dad Tommy, 52, who manages Aldershot Town, and brother Theo, 25, a professional player and midfielder at the club.Kai said: “When you’re young you take it for granted that you can play. Having goals and parents to help is a luxury. “We used to just use bags or coats as a goal.“Like these kids, I played because I loved the game. It’s such a golden memory to have with your friends.Most read in Football“The skills I learnt on the pitch have stayed with me for life. “A lot of the people I played grassroots with have gone on to coach at their local clubs and some, like my brother, play professionally.Strictly Star Kai Widdrington goes back to his roots for Sun footie campaign‘Achieve their dreams’“When you play at this age, football remains part of your life. “In my case, my dad lives, eats and breathes football. I was lucky to have a parent who played football professionally. Kai joined by his football manager dad as he visits Littleton Junior FCCredit: Simon Jones – The Sun“But we’re all here because we love the game, same for the coaches and the kids.”Kai grew up moving around the country as Tommy started his career with Southampton. Other clubs he played for included Port Vale and Hartlepool.The family’s visit to Littleton Junior FC came as The Sun is offering another 150 grants of £1,000 each, after our first £150,000 cash pot helped squads across the country.From starting up new teams and providing free places for kids from low-income families to replacing old and out-of-date equipment, the money has gone to good use.So today we urge YOU to apply for one of our fantastic new Footie For All grants.They can be used in any way that encourages kids to take up the sport or aids access to the game.Perhaps you are a local team which wants to offer parents help with membership fees.Maybe you need new kits or more pitch space to play on. Grants can also be used to help with transport or running costs.Littleton Junior FC, near Winchester, Hants, have used their grant to buy new equipment for the club, which has more than 600 players and 104 coaches.The club also have a hardship fund to ensure any families who are struggling don’t have to remove their kids from sessions.Under-7’s coach Ken Holt, whose son Joshua, seven, plays, said: “The grant from The Sun has been hugely helpful, as all the kit required for the kids to play is really expensive. “Even things like bibs and cones, the cost really adds up.“But seeing how much the kids love it, the friendships they make and skills they develop is worth it.“Having Kai and his family come to visit the boys was really exciting for them.“Getting to play with a celebrity is great and they all really mucked in.”Despite some initial nerves when the Widdringtons arrived, it didn’t take long before Rari, seven, made a beeline to Theo to ask him: “How many keepie-uppies can you do?”.Without giving him, or Kai, a chance to demonstrate, the boys began showing off their own skills. But Theo didn’t take long to display his tekkers and give tips.Theo, who has fond memories of games with Pace Youth FC in Southampton, said: “It’s been lovely seeing these kids have fun in a safe space.“When you’re this age there is nothing better than going out and scoring goals with your mates.“Seeing how well this is run is amazing. “These kids are learning life lessons, respect, dedication and an appreciation of team-mates — all while having a really fun time.”Within seconds of leaving the pitch, Theo and Kai were called back for a game with the six-year-olds. “They’re like little Duracell batteries,” Kai joked, as he got tackled. Proud Tommy told The Sun: “This is where it all starts and even at this young age I can see some kids here have potential to be great.“They could be potential Premier League players. For many parents, money is hard, but you spend time running your kids around the country because you love them.“Plus you have a potential footballer on your hands and you want to help them achieve their dreams.”After winning the World Junior Latin American championship at 14 Kai landed a spot as a pro on Ireland’s Dancing With The Stars in 2017, before joining BBC One’s Strictly in 2021.He is preparing for a live tour with girlfriend and fellow Strictly pro Nadiya Bychkova, 34. READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “Like a football game, if we make people laugh and cry during the show, we have done our job.”
      The tour kicks off on June 1. For tickets visit nadiyaandkai.com/
      Kai is preparing for a live tour with Strictly girlfriend Nadiya BychkovaCredit: Splash News More

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      Inside Wanda Nara’s glitzy adventure on Italy’s Strictly, from shocking health scare revelations to perfect scores joy

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      FIERCE, courageous, and entertaining – Wanda Nara’s journey on Italy’s version of Strictly Come Dancing has got people talking.Last weekend, the notorious Wag, 36, saw judges on Ballando con le Stelle flash 10s at her for her stunning samba routine.
      Argentinian bombshell Wanda Nara has got people talking about her performances on Italy’s Strictly Come Dancing
      Stunning Wanda in action on Ballando con le StelleCredit: Agi for RAI
      It’s been an emotional journey for Wanda
      Of course, it would have been criminal if the South American bombshell couldn’t nail a dance with Brazilian origins.
      But, Wanda has had a lot on her plate before she embarked on a mission to wow TV audiences.
      And, no doubt, she would have won a whole host of new fans.
      At the tail-end of last month, the wife of former Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi broke down in tears when she revealed she was battling a serious illness.
      Read more football news
      However, that hasn’t stopped her from dazzling alongside partner Pasquale La Rocca.
      It has been an emotional adventure for the brave beauty.
      She’s doing it for her kids
      Performing on Strictly is a hard slog.
      Previous contestants will tell you about the gruelling time spent in the studio getting your steps right with your dancer.
      Most read in Football
      It’s especially harder on Wanda, who divides her time between Turkey, where Icardi plays for Galatasaray, and Italy.
      The days are long, while the nerve-racking experience of the live show is enough to put a mere mortal off.
      One error and you are thrown to the dogs, with millions critical from their armchairs.
      Wanda, though, is on a mission.
      In an emotional segment in the early weeks of the series, Wanda made an astonishing revelation about a health scare she has had.
      Fighting back tears, she told viewers she wanted to take part to “show my children that I am fine”.
      Wanda explained how doctors had diagnosed her with a serious illness over the summer after she underwent a routine health check-up.
      Fortunately, it was discovered early and Wanda has been able to manage her condition.
      After wowing viewers with a rumba in the opening week, Wanda tearfully explained her motivation for joining the hit show as she opened up on her health problems.
      She said: “I had to travel to Milan. Whenever I go there I do some routine tests. The results were abnormal and the doctors began to see things.
      “I was crying without knowing what it even was. My children were so sad.
      Wanda, who is married to Mauro Icardi, confirmed she is fighting an illness
      The Argie beauty confessed she was dancing to show her kids that mummy was OK
      “When they invited me to be on ‘Dancing with the Stars’, obviously the situation was more stable.
      “Before signing the contract, I asked the doctors whether I could accept while receiving treatment. They told me ‘yes, 100 per cent, do it’.
      “I believe it is an example for my children and when they see this experience, especially the younger ones who did not understand what was happening to their mum. They will feel like everything is fine.
      “I’m dancing to show that I’m fine.”
      Medical condition
      Wanda first addressed issues with her health back in July, when she said on social media she wanted to keep her condition private while she awaited more test results.
      However, she explained to Corriere della Sera how she is coping with the illness.
      “I’m trying to live with the same strength as before, valuing life every day.
      “I have always thought that nothing matters more than health, now obviously more. And I want to be with the people I love, not worry about bulls***, that’s the most important thing.”
      Gruelling training sessions as well as constant travelling from Italy to Turkey are not too much for Wanda
      Wanda has won over a host of fans for her bravery
      On her diagnosis, she added: “Yes, yes, fortunately yes [it was detected early].
      “It makes everything more manageable. I was very tired and having to go on a trip I had some tests done, for no reason. After the result I stopped for a couple of days.
      “I had to understand the situation. Now I try to live it by valuing every moment of my life more.
      “I had the worst thoughts, especially as a mother. But it’s also the reason why she made me react quickly: I feel like I’m the driving force of my family, if I fall everyone falls, like dominoes.”
      Dancing her heart out
      You could be forgiven for thinking Wanda’s efforts in the ballroom were something she had trained to do in the past. She’s been that impressive.
      “People think that if you were born in Argentina you have dancing in your blood, but in my case it’s not like that,” she told La Repubblica.
      She added, “I’m not even strong in the tango” which she recalled practising as a five-year-old girl with her grandfather when she grew up in Buenos Aires.
      Wanda has been paired with dancer and choreographer Pasquale La RoccaCredit: Iwan Palombi for the Rai press office
      Already Wanda and Pasquale have wowed TV audiences
      On the eve of the show, Wanda promised: “I’m here to have fun and dance. The public will see another Wanda Nara.” She wasn’t wrong.
      Ballando con le Stelle kicked off on October 21 on RAI network, so we’re just over three weeks in.
      Already, Wanda has stolen the show – and that’s not only for her dancing.
      Quirky stories about odd habits like chewing ice, which was encouraged by husband Icardi who bought her an ice machine, have endeared her to the public.
      As for the dancing, she stunned with a tango and paso doble in the first few weeks.
      But in the recent show, where she performed three dances, it was her samba that had judges applauding her.
      Read More on The Sun
      She received five 10’s from them, achieving her first perfect score of the competition.
      Wanda is now the hot favourite, in more ways than one. It’s a fitting dedication to her children.
      Wanda is now the hot favourite
      Viewers have warmed to Wanda’s dance skills
      While judges gave a delighted Wanda a perfect score for her samba More

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      If Mason Greenwood stays at Man Utd I’ll stop supporting the club, says Channel 4 star Rachel Riley

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      COUNTDOWN co-host Rachel Riley has vowed to stop supporting Manchester United if they welcome back Mason Greenwood.The keen Red Devils fan has spoken out as the Premier League club prepares to end the ex-England striker’s suspension in days.
      Rachel Riley has threatened to quit supporting Manchester United
      A decision on Mason Greenwood’s United future is about to be announcedCredit: Getty
      Protests over the club’s approach were held outside Old Trafford on MondayCredit: Getty
      Channel 4’s Countdown co-host Rachel posted on Twitter: “I won’t be able to support United if Greenwood remains at the club.”
      Her comments came after The Sun revealed how Greenwood is expected to be reinstated at United as early as next week.
      Greenwood, 21, hasn’t played for the first team since being arrested in January last year for attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
      All charges against him were dropped in February but the footballer remains suspended by United.
      Read More On Manchester United
      There has, however, been recent talk suggesting a possible return from their head coach Erik ten Hag.
      Members of Manchester United Women’s team have reportedly raised concerns about the prospect of Greenwood returning to the training ground.
      And protests were staged at Old Trafford before United’s opening match of the season against Wolverhampton Wanderers last Monday.
      Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Rachel, 37, was responding to broadcast comments from another female United fan, named Em, saying she would “walk away from my club” if Greenwood returned.
      Most read in Football
      Rachel told her 684,000 Twitter followers: “I’m with Em, I won’t be able to support United if Greenwood remains at the club.
      “We’ve all seen and heard enough. Pretending this is ok would be a huge part of the problem.
      “It would be devastating for my club to contribute to a culture that brushes this under the carpet and send a message to perpetrators everywhere that you can continue to act as you wish with no consequences.
      “I really hope they do the right thing.”
      DECISION DUE IN NEXT FEW DAYS
      Essex-born Rachel has previously shown her love of United in Instagram posts including visits to Old Trafford to cheer them on.
      She also revealed how she kitted out daughter Maven in team colours aged just eight months old.
      Rachel even combined presenting duties with watching them in action thanks to an out-of-shot TV behind the Countdown board.
      She also used her Twitter account to criticise United fans who flew a banner above a match mocking then-club chief Ed Woodward.
      Greenwood, suspended on full pay of £75,000 a week, has been training alone – following drills drawn up by United’s coaching staff.
      His last game was on January 22, 2022, in a Premier League clash against West Ham United, which United won 1-0.
      He was charged in October last year and was due to stand trial in November this year.
      But prosecutors withdrew the case on February 2 after his alleged victim and a dozen more witnesses refused to co-operate.
      United’s chief executive Richard Arnold is expected to make a decision on Greenwood’s future over the next 48 hours.
      But the announcement will be delayed until after the England Lionesses’ World Cup final this Sunday against Spain.
      Bradford-born Greenwood has scored 35 goals in 129 appearances for Manchester United, having joined the club as a six-year-old.
      He was given his England debut by manager Gareth Southgate as a late substitute against Iceland in September 2020, though has not played for the country since.
      UNITED TALKS ‘IN FINAL STAGES’
      United said in a statement yesterday the club had completed “a thorough investigation” into the allegations against Greenwood.
      They added: “This has drawn on extensive evidence and context not in the public domain.
      “We have heard from numerous people with direct involvement or knowledge of the case.”
      United said the welfare of his alleged victim had been at the forefront of the internal investigation.
      But the statement went on: “We also have responsibilities to Mason as an employee, as a young person who has been with the club since the age of seven, and as a new father with a partner. 
      “The fact-finding phase of our investigation is now complete, and we are in the final stages of making a decision on Mason’s future. 
      “Contrary to media speculation, that decision has not yet been made and is currently the subject of intensive internal deliberation.
      Read More on The Sun
      “This has been a difficult case for everyone associated with Manchester United, and we understand the strong opinions it has provoked based on the partial evidence in the public domain. 
      “We ask for patience as we work through the final stages of this carefully considered process.”
      Rachel says she will no longer support United if they allow Greenwood backCredit: Getty
      Rachel has shared on Instagram photos showing her love of the club
      The Countdown co-host has urged Old Trafford bosses to ‘do the right thing’
      Greenwood was cleared of all charges against him in FebruaryCredit: AFP More

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      in Soccer

      Laura Woods left in stitches after brilliantly pranking Agbonlahor live on talkSPORT then holds up ‘I’m sorry’ note

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      LAURA WOODS broke down in laughter after successfully pranking co-host Gabby Agbonlahor on talkSPORT.The popular radio host was joined by the former Aston Villa striker and Ally McCoist as they prepared to speak to England Euros winner Jill Scott.
      Laura Woods laughed silently on air after an embarrassed Agbonlahor realised his mistakeCredit: talkSPORT
      ‘I’m sorry’ reads Laura Woods’ note after pulling off her prankCredit: talkSPORT
      But Woods had mischievously laid the groundwork to make Agbonlahor stumble into on-air blunder.
      With the breakfast show hosts allocating questions to ask Scott off-air, Woods deliberately prompted Agbonlahor to quiz Scott on her time on Strictly Come Dancing.
      But the ex-midfielder, 36, has never appeared on the BBC show and instead won reality series ‘I’m a Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here!’
      Unaware he was being misled, Agbonlahor confidently stepped up to ask his question early in the interview about Scott’s life.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      He said: “How did you find it though? Because me and Ally can’t dance but you done very well, didn’t you?
      A baffled Scott replied: “Well there wasn’t a lot of dancing, was there?”
      As Scott continues talking, Woods is not able to contain her composure as Agbonlahor slowly realises he’s been set up.
      The talkSPORT presenter ducks out of the shot as she silently laughs while her sheepish co-host grins and stares.
      Most read in Football
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      She then holds up a sign saying “I’m sorry” while the interview continues.
      After the chat, Woods revealed: “Just before Jill came on, and we always distribute questions [prior to interviews], I said to Gabby, ‘do you know what you can ask Jill, you can ask her about the time she won Strictly Come Dancing’ and [he] went ‘right, okay’ and wrote it down.
      “Of course she’s Queen of the jungle from I’m a celeb!”
      A mortified but amused Agbonlahor replied: “She’s probably thinking, I didn’t dance in the jungle.” More