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    Divine Iheme: Meet the 14-year-old British sprint prodigy who is fastest U15 in HISTORY and dubbed ‘next Noah Lyles’

    SPRINT sensation Divine Iheme is on the fast track to Olympic glory.The 14-year-old is the fastest ever Under-15 runner, getting across the 100m finish line in just 10.3 seconds.Divine Iheme is Team GB’s sprinting wonderkidCredit: GettyHe is the fastest Under-15 runner in historyCredit: GettyIheme is nicknamed ‘Lightening’Credit: GettyJamaican star Sachin Dennis held the previous record at 10.51 seconds, with the two tenths difference considered an absolute age in the sprinting world.Iheme’s blistering pace has seen him dubbed the “next Noah Lyles”.And rightly so as the American Paris Olympics gold medal winner ran a best of 11.27 seconds when he was that age.All eight men in the 100m final in Paris ran sub-ten seconds for the first time ever.READ MORE IN SPORTLyles won it with a 9.79 second dash as last placed Oblique Seville came in at 9.91.At the speed of Iheme’s improvements, he could be making his mark on the world stage in no time.The teenager nicknamed “Lightening” has also lived up to his tag in the 200m, running a stunning 21.68 seconds.Sprinting is in his genes as both of his parents represented Nigeria at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester.Most read in AthleticsHis mum Nkiruku competed in the 100m and 200m like her son, while his dad Innocent was in the 100m and the long jump.They both now coach their son in Oxford, and have admitted his pace is a “God-given talent”.Team GB’s gold medal haul from the 2024 Olympics in Paris gold 14Michael Ofo of SOS Management, who has helped British heavyweight champion Fabio Wardley on his rise to the top, is also in Iheme’s camp.Despite being eligible for Nigeria, Iheme is committed to Team GB.He told Sky Sports: “I was born here, I’ve had free education, free school meals. Everyone here has been taking care of me, child support, all this stuff.”I feel like I’m going to run for Great Britain because they have helped me the most.” But when it comes to inspirations, Iheme looks further afield, saying: “Noah Lyles is a great athlete and he’s given me a lot of confidence to pursue this career, run quicker, get a better time.Noah Lyles won 100m gold in ParisCredit: Getty”I’ve watched quite a lot of Usain Bolt’s races and Allyson Felix’s 200m, 400m and relays.”Probably the first race I watched was Bolt’s 200m world record, the 19.19, I was inspired to pursue my dream.”I try my best to slingshot off the bend [in 200m] and continue holding first until I cross the finish line.”In my opinion, I think my running style is unique and natural. I don’t try to model it on anyone.”Iheme is keen to one day run as fast as Bolt – but his main aims are more heartwarming.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe said: “I always try to do my parents proud. I want to make sure that in the future, they can just sit back and relax while I can get them gifts, buy them a house, buy them things for their future.”The goal is to try and make them happy, make them live a great life.”Iheme’s parents admit his pace is a ‘God-given talent’Credit: Getty More

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    Olympic champion and TV star reveals plans for shock boxing comeback at 42 – after cracking Hollywood

    A FORMER Olympic champion is set for a shock boxing comeback aged 42.But only once she has cracked Hollywood. A former Olympic gold medalist and world champion is ready to return to boxingCredit: Dan Charity – The SunThe British star secured gold medals at London 2012 and then again four years later, defending her title at Rio 2016.But a torn pupil in her eye left her at risk of going blind so she retired in 2019 with an undefeated pro record. Now, though, five years on, Nicola Adams is ready to return to the ring.She told The Sunday Times she has been “steadily doing the groundwork” and is prepared to channel her inner Floyd Mayweather.READ MORE ON BOXINGAdams said: “I just feel like I might have one or two fights left in me. “It’s pretty certain [it will happen], 90 per cent.“I think I just needed a break because I’d spent God knows how many years of my life boxing and there were so many different things I wanted to try and do.“But I never stopped training, I’ve already stayed in shape, and when I look at the skill level of the girls in and around my weight division, I’m definitely backing myself. Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERS“I feel the same as Floyd Mayweather does. “He was still able to control these younger fighters when he was 40-something years old because of his skill and ringcraft.Olympic boxing gold medallist, Nicola Adams, offers women self-defence lessons to empower them in situations they may otherwise feel vulnerable “I want a big fight, and why not throw a [world title] belt in there for good measure.”Leeds’ Adams, who turns 42 later this month, rose to prominence with her golden success at her home Olympics then backed it up in Brazil four years later. Adams collected all the amateur titles available to her, was Olympic, world and European champion simultaneously and then turned pro in 2017 after 99 amateur bouts.The following year, she claimed the vacant WBO flyweight world title against Isabel Millan then kept hold of it in a draw with Maria Salinas in September 2019.But the Salinas fight came at a cost, with Adams sustaining the eye injury that saw her hang up her gloves with a 5-0-1 record.That gave the Yorkshirewoman – awarded an MBE and OBE – the chance to explore different avenues, including becoming a mother with her girlfriend Ella Baig via IVF. Adams featured in the first same-sex pair on Strictly Come Dancing in 2020.I spent a couple of years trying to undo my poker face because in boxing you never show any emotion. It was difficult at first to show what I’m actually feeling inside.Nicola AdamsShe also appeared on Celebrity Gogglebox and had cameos on Coronation Street, Emmerdale and Waterloo Road. And now after classes at Identity School of Acting, she has landed her first gig in a Hollywood film – following a host of rejections. Adams will appear in The Gun On Second Street, a film about two Pittsburgh police officers who exchange lives after an unexpected, tragic event, alongside Poppy Delevingne. She added: “Landing the first role is always the hardest. It’s taken me five years. “I’ve done a lot of self-tapes. I think because I’m seen as a boxer people think you can’t act so I’ve almost got more to prove.“It’s not just, ‘Oh look, Nicola Adams,’ and then I’m gone. I’ve got a really good part. I’ll be doing an American accent as well so I’ve been working with voice coaches.READ MORE SUN STORIES“It’s just been a really exciting journey learning how to express myself in different roles. I spent a couple of years trying to undo my poker face because in boxing you never show any emotion. “If you get hurt in the ring, you can’t show your opponent anything. It was difficult at first to show what I’m actually feeling inside.”Nicola Adams has been in training and is prepared to get back inside the professional ropesCredit: PA:Press AssociationAdams won the hearts of the nation with a gold for Team GB at London 2012Credit: AFPShe was crowned WBO flyweight world champ but retired in 2019 with an eye injuryCredit: PA:Press AssociationHer various TV appearances include competing on Strictly Come DancingCredit: PA More

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    Robbie Fitzgibbon dead aged 28: Tributes pour in as ex-Team GB star tragically passes away

    BRITISH middle-distance runner Robbie Fitzgibbon has died at the age of 28.His tragic death was announced by his club, Brighton Phoenix, on Friday evening.Robbie Fitzgibbon has died at the age of 28Credit: GettyThe team confirmed he had died on October 7 as they paid a heartfelt tribute.A statement from chairman Mike Townley and vice chair Josh Guilmant said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of one of our most cherished athletes, Robbie Fitzgibbon.”A friend to many, and a source of motivation for all who had the privilege of knowing him, Robbie was the epitome of a runner’s runner, embodying everything we value at Phoenix.”Though Robbie will no longer run alongside us, share his stories, or lift our spirits with his humour and kindness, his presence will continue to be felt in everything we do as a club. READ MORE IN SPORT”His contribution to Phoenix is enduring, living on through the countless memories we have shared.”Fitzgibbon had been a standout talent at junior level, winning the English schools 1500m title in 2014 and finishing fifth in the 1500m final at the European Athletics U20 Championships.He finished 13th in the 1500m in the London Anniversary Games in 2017.Fitzgibbon had originally joined Phoenix at the age of 12, and continued to represent Great Britain at international level, including several Diamond League events.Most read in AthleticsThe statement added: “In recent years, Robbie took a step back from the intense nature of track running moving from middle-distance to becoming a key member of our distance group, finding enjoyment again not just in racing cross country and road but being part of the team and wider Phoenix community. “He would always be the first to put his hand up for another race.”This summer, he was part of the South Downs Way Relay team, setting a leg record along the way, medalling in the County Cross Country Champs at Goodwood where he started his club running career and running Christmas day parkrun at Preston Park on a monumental hangover.”Robbie gave so much to the club, and we know the club meant just as much to him. It is difficult to find the right words in moments like these. “Robbie was not just an athlete to us; he was a friend, a team-mate, and an irreplaceable part of our Phoenix family.”His final international appearance had come at the European Indoor Championships in Glasgow in 2019, where he suffered an ankle injury which prevented him from returning to the same level.As recently as June, he had won the Bexhill 5km with a time of 15:13, and had been preparing to run the Brighton Marathon next year for charity Mind.His father will run in his place to honour his memory after his passing.The statement continued: “Robbie had been preparing to run the 2025 Brighton Marathon in aid of the charity Mind. READ MORE SUN STORIES”His dad Robin will now run in his place and, to honour his wishes, we invite those who are able to consider donating to his chosen cause in his memory.”Donations can be made HERE. More

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    Leeds star Dan James dreaming of winning Olympic gold with Team GB at Los Angeles 2028

    DAN JAMES admits he would like to follow Wales boss Craig Bellamy and play in a possible Team GB Olympic side.British Olympic Association chiefs want a men’s football team at the 2028 Olympics staged in Los Angeles.Bellamy was joined by Welshman Ryan Giggs, Joe Allen, Aaron Ramsey and Neil Taylor in the Team GB side which took part at London 2012Credit: GettyDan James attended a McDonald’s Fun Football Day at Bollington United in Cheshire recentlyBellamy was one of five Welshman who played in London 2012 – the only time since 1960 a GB men’s side has taken part.Leeds winger James said: “If the opportunity arised then I’d definitely be interested. “Not many people can say they have been to an Olympics so if it did arise I’d be more than interested.”New Wales boss Bellamy became the first British to score in Team GB colours in 52 years when he netted against Senegal at Old Trafford 12 years ago.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBellamy was a big supporter of the Olympic movement and described the opportunity as a “great honour”.He was joined by fellow countryman Ryan Giggs, Aaron Ramsey, Joe Allen and Neil Taylor in Stuart Pearce’s squad.The FA are believed to be keen to embrace the opportunity.But other Home Nations are concerned a joint GB side with players from the four countries would threaten their independent status with Fifa.Most read in FootballFootball Association of Wales chief executive Noel Mooney claimed the possibility of GB entering a men’s side has “never been discussed” among Dragons bosses.That is despite the BOA promoting the idea after the Paris Games this summer where Spain beat France 5-3 after extra-time to win the gold medal.James took part in the largest ever Fun Football session to celebrate the milestone of 500,000 children benefitting from the programme across the UKWhether James, 26, plays in LA remains to be seen but Wales aim to qualify for the 2026 World Cup hosted in the US as well as Canada and Mexico.Bellamy names his squad today for Wales’ Nations League games away to Iceland and Montenegro in Cardiff this month with James set to miss out due to a hamstring injury.But James is excited about linking up with the new Dragons chief soon as they map out their journey to emulating Wales’ 2022 World Cup qualification in Qatar.James, who was speaking at a McDonald’s Fun Football Day at Bollington United in Cheshire, added: “The 2026 World Cup is our big aim. “These Nations League fixtures are very important to put us in a good position going into the qualifiers for the World Cup and we want to get to Group A in the Nations League.”We have had the experience of the World Cup and it wasn’t quite what we wanted. “We were delighted to get there but we were disappointed in the way it finished.”All the players are desperate to get there again. The fans will want to experience it too.”It’s going to be a great one in the US so it’s one we don’t want to miss out on. America is great. “They are producing top footballers and the sport is becoming bigger and bigger over there.  “You see how they put on big spectacles in other sports and that World Cup will be watched all across the globe. It will be brilliant. We don’t want to miss out on that.”James is looking forward to working with ex-Liverpool, Manchester City and Newcastle wideman Bellamy.The new Wales chief kicked off his tenure with a positive goalless home draw with Turkey and a 2-1 win in Montenegro last month.James said: “It’s a great appointment. I’m gutted to miss out. “The manager is an ex-player who played in my position and had a great career like Ryan Giggs.”Ryan brought me through and I’ll always thank him for that. READ MORE SUN STORIES”But having two ex-players who were great in the Premier League will be nice for me because I can get their experiences as footballers.”TaglineMcDonald’s Fun Football ambassador Daniel James took part in the largest ever Fun Football session to celebrate the milestone of 500,000 children benefitting from the programme across the UK. Sign up to a free session near you at www.mcdonalds.co.uk/football More

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    Team GB Olympics hero Keely Hodgkinson stuns in bikini during ‘week of paradise’ in Dubai

    KEELY HODGKINSON’S golden glow is as bright as ever – even though she showed off “paradise” in only black and white.Team GB’s 800m Olympic champion went “retro” for two-tone pics from Dubai in a bikini and dazzling mini-dress.Keely Hodgkinson looked relaxed and refreshed in DubaiCredit: InstagramFans loved the ‘retro’ snaps she shared from her week-long breakCredit: InstagramThe smile said it all as Keely took a well-deserved restCredit: InstagramBut the 22-year-old looked far from off-colour – unlike her Manchester United heroes when she visited Old Trafford to display her Paris gold medal before Sunday’s 3-0 defeat against Tottenham.Keely’s sultry Instagram pics of herself from United Arab Emirates were all in black and white.The Mancunian posted: “Thank you for a week of paradise!!” and shared a link to “an exclusive adults-only luxury retreat”.She certainly looked refreshed and relaxed – posing in the water for one shot and with an appreciative grin in another as she protected her eyes from the sun.READ MORE ON OLYMPICSFour of her seven photos were in colour – but all those shots were of local sites, plus one of a well-stocked dining table.And if you looked closely, you could just see Keely’s pink-topped reflection in the bottom of a shiny bowl!Team GB team-mate Daryll Neita, who won Olympic silver in the 100m relay this summer, responded: “Looks like heaven.”And Keely’s 521,000 Instagram followers agreed.Most read in AthleticsKeely got a hero’s welcome at Old Trafford on Sunday but Man Utd lostCredit: PA”You are a dream,” said one, while another responded: “Stunning, Queen of sports!”A third admirer told her: “Black and white filter gives you a retro beauty.”Olympics hero Keely Hodgkinson thanks her home town for their support at the Paris Olympics Keely also showed off Dubai’s subtle shadesCredit: InstagramAnd there was a sprint finish to add more simple compliments.These included: “Looking nice”… “Beautiful”… “Gorgeous”… and inevitably “Wow”.All of which must have seemed a million miles – rather than just 4,600m – from the gloomy offerings she’d endured at Old Trafford over the weekend.The middle-distance runner sparkled at a London eventCredit: GettyShe appeared at a Milan fashion show last monthCredit: Rex Features More

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    Sir Alex Ferguson, 82, looks in good spirits as Man Utd legend hugs Team GB gold medallist Keely Hodgkinson

    LEGENDARY Man Utd boss was all smiles at Old Trafford on Sunday – despite a disaster out on the pitch. The former Red Devils manager, 82, was snapped alongside Olympic gold medalist Keely Hodgkinson following United’s 3-0 loss to Spurs.Sir Alex Ferguson and Keely Hodgkinson met at Man Utd’s game with Spurs on SundayCredit: https://www.instagram.com/keely.hodgkinson/The legendary boss was all smiles despite the 3-0 lossCredit: https://www.instagram.com/keely.hodgkinson/The Olympic star showed off her gold medal prior to the gameCredit: PAFerguson remains a regular at United games despite his recent health concerns.He posed for a snap alongside Team GB’s golden girl and United fan Hodgkinson. She was given a hero’s welcome as the 800m champion showed off her gold medal prior to kick-off at Old Trafford. The 22-year-old was presented with a framed Man Utd shirt before heading off on a lap of honour. READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut she left disappointed as Erik ten Hag’s men fell to a calamitous defeat.Despite the result, Hodgkinson and Sir Alex were all smiles as they linked up after the game in the VIP area.The pair shared a hug as the Atherton native documented her day out to her 521,000 Instagram followers.Hodgkinson wrote: “Thank you for a warm welcome yesterday @manchesterunited. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”It was an honour to meet the man of the hour, in the theatre of dreams, supporting the best team in the world.”One fan responded to the snap: “They were just happy to see a winner Keely!”Keely Hodgkinson challenged to rarely-seen race by Olympic gold medal-winning hurdlerWhile a second joked: “At the game yesterday, you were the highlight…..”And a third laughed: “Can you play up front for us?”Hodgkinson jetted straight off on holiday following her heroics in Paris last month. Hodgkinson came out on top in the 800m in ParisCredit: PAMan Utd ratings vs TottenhamMANCHESTER UNITED suffered a 3-0 thrashing against Tottenham at Old Trafford.Captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off in the first half for fouling James Maddison, forcing Erik Ten Hag’s side to play with 10 men against Ange Postecoglou’s team.After back-to-back draws against Crystal Palace and FC Twente fans hoped United would redeem themselves against Spurs.However, the match at Old Trafford quickly turned sour. Brennan Johnson scored early and things worsened when Fernandes was sent off allowing Spurs to extend their lead to 3-0.And here is how SunSports Charlie Wyett rated the Manchester United stars.Andre Onana – 5Stood his ground to deliver a good save from Timo Werner who was clean through – no chance for either goal.Noussair Mazraoui – 5First in the refs’ book for chopping down Destiny Udogie. Could also have blocked Micky van de Ven for the goal. Just watched Solanke make it 3-0.Matthijs de Ligt – 4Shocking first half. Failed to cut out the cross from Micky van de Ven which led to the first goal.Lisandro Martinez – 5Switched off for the Spurs goal and was drawn to the ball and Johnson was left unmarked.Diogo Dalot – 5Gave the ball away in dangerous areas and struggled against Johnson.Manuel Ugarte – 5Suffered a stinker and was lucky to last until the 73rd minute.Kobbie Mainoo – 5Not one of his better performances and was taken off just before half-time following Fernandes’ sending-off.Marcus Rashford – 5Over-ran the ball for Tottenham’s first. Way off the pace.Bruno Fernandes – 4Arguably the worst captain in United’s history. Deserved red card for his challenge on James Maddison.Alejandro Garnacho – 6Had United’s only chance in the first half but hit the outside of the post. Improved in the second half.Joshua Zirkzee – 5Looked completely lost up front – threatening to be another poor Erik ten Hag signing. Replaced at half-time.Subs:Mount (for Mainoo 45)  5, Casemiro (for Zirkzee 46) 7, Hojlund (for Rashford 73) 5, Eriksen (for Ugarte 73) 5.She was spotted enjoying a well-earned rest in Marbella, sunning herself on a luxury yacht.The 22-year-old also revealed her mum was a diehard United fan. READ MORE SUN STORIESHodgkinson revealed: “My mum has had a Manchester United season ticket since she was 19.”Her name is on the seats at Old Trafford. She is more of a diehard fan than me.” More

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    Team GB Olympics hero Keely Hodgkinson given hero’s welcome as Man Utd fan shows off gold medal at Old Trafford

    TEAM GB star and Manchester United superfan Keely Hodgkinson received a hero’s welcome at Old Trafford after her Paris 2024 heroics.Hodgkinson, 22, blitzed the competition to win gold in the 800m at the Olympics in the summer and showcased her medal before United’s Premier League clash with Tottenham.Team GB star and Man Utd fan Keely Hodgkinson got a hero’s welcome at Old TraffordCredit: PAHodgkinson won a gold medal in the 800m sprint at Paris 2024Credit: ReutersMan Utd fan Hodgkinson grew up only a stone’s throw away from Old TraffordCredit: GettyHodgkinson was raised a Man Utd fan in ManchesterHodgkinson received a warm ovation at Old TraffordThe Mancunian athlete saluted the fans before kick-off and received a warm ovation from the home crowd as she stood with a big smile on her face.But that was as good as it got for United fans on the day as they were battered by Spurs in a match which saw Bruno Fernandes shown a straight red – his first sending off for the club.The sprinter didn’t have to come a long way as she was raised only a stone’s throw away from Old Trafford.The Olympian grew up adoring the Red Devils and even managed to enjoy a glimpse of the glory years under legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson.Read More on Man UtdAnd the runner even admitted that she always had a soft spot for United cult hero Javier Hernandez.Hodgkinson previously said: “I live on my own now. An independent woman. Well, as a United fan, I wouldn’t look over Manchester City would I?“Do I hear the crowd noise? It’s not that bad. I can literally see it across from me and see the lights buzzing when it’s a match night. It’s busy round town.“Where I live is really nice. There is MediaCity. It’s near the airport, the train station and the track. It’s very convenient. I love it.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“My mum has had a Manchester United season ticket since she was 19 and her name is on the seats at Old Trafford. She is more of a diehard fan than me.“I got the last glimpses [of the glory years] when I was about eight years old.Keely Hodgkinson challenged to rarely-seen race by Olympic gold medal-winning hurdler“Though I did see his matches, I don’t remember much about Cristiano Ronaldo being at Manchester United the first time round.“I was more a fan of Javier Hernandez or Chicharito as he’s known. I liked him when I was growing up.” More

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    Former Premier League star who played alongside Ryan Giggs and Micah Richards comes out of retirement at 33

    A FORMER Premier League star has surprisingly come out of retirement aged 33.The player was a team-mate of Ryan Giggs, Aaron Ramsey and Micah Richards.The Team GB Olympics team in 2012 featured plenty of starsCredit: GettyBut 12 years on from representing Team GB at the London Olympics, the ex-forward has returned.He initially hung up his boots aged just 28.The ace cited his struggles with his mental health and racist abuse when he decided to stop playing professionally.Raised a stone’s throw from Wembley, he burst on to the scene with Watford and shone in the Premier League with Bolton and Burnley. READ MORE ON FOOTBALLHowever, he called time on his career after slipping back down the divisions, last turning out for Northampton Town on loan in 2018-19 from Burton. But now Marvin Sordell is back after signing for nearby Kettering Town.The Southern League Premier Division Central side – who play in the seventh tier – announced their latest acquisition on X. Alongside a photo of Sordell smiling, the post said: “KTFC are delighted to announce that former Northampton Town loanee Marvin Sordell has joined the club. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”Marvin a greatly experienced forward has played for League teams, the GB Olympic side in 2012 & England U20 & U23 sides. We wish him every success, welcome Marvin.”Sordell is not the only former Premier League man lacing his boots up for the Poppies this term.Premier League fathers and sonsHe will line up alongside ex-Newcastle striker Nile Ranger in attack for the Northamptonshire outfit. Sordell racked up 17 appearances in the Premier League – but famously did not win a single match.That was a record – until Ben Brereton Diaz was on the losing side as Manchester United won at Southampton earlier this month, his 18th Premier League appearance without a single victory. Sordell – who scored four goals in 15 England youth international caps – launched his own foundation after reading a book about trafficking and also fights for other societal issues, especially after his own suicidal attempts.The footballer has also branched into a new career in film.He is co-founder and producer at ONEIGHTY Productions, working behind the scenes on films with Arsenal, David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane, adidas and EA Sports. Marvin Sordell struggled with depression and feeling suicidalCredit: Dave Pinegar – The SunThe forward did not win any of his 17 Premier League matchesCredit: GettyHis campaigning for social justice has been recognised by royaltyCredit: Twitter @MarvinSordellWho are these famous footballers? More