Reuters Sports News Summary

American forward Adam Johnson's death, described as a "freak accident" by his team and being investigated by British police, sparked a dialogue on whether players at all levels of the game should be forced to wear neck protection. Horse racing-'Safety comes above all,' Breeders' Cup CEO says following horse death The safety of race horses is paramount, Breeders' Cup officials said on Wednesday, a day after the death of a three-year-old colt who was scheduled to compete at the World Championships at Santa Anita Park this weekend.

Following is a summary of current sports news briefs.

Motor racing-Hamilton 'incredibly proud' of Vinicius after Socrates Award

Lewis Hamilton said he felt "incredibly proud" to see Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior receive this year's Socrates Award at the Ballon d'Or ceremony and vowed to continue speaking out against racism. Brazilian Vinicius, who has been racially abused in LaLiga games in the last two seasons, was recognised for starting a foundation that is building schools in impoverished areas and investing in education in his home country.

Tennis-Dominant Djokovic wins Paris Masters opener

World number one Novak Djokovic got off to a solid start in his quest for a record-extending seventh Paris Masters title with a resounding 6-3 6-2 win over Tomas Etcheverry in the second round on Wednesday. The Serb, who was playing his first singles match since the Davis Cup six weeks ago, has strengthened his grip at the top of the rankings, taking a 580-point lead over Spain's Carlos Alcaraz, who exited the tournament on Tuesday.

NHL-Capitals' Backstrom stepping away from game due to 'injury situation'

Washington Capitals forward Nicklas Backstrom announced on Wednesday his decision to step away from ice hockey so that he can focus on his health. The 35-year-old Swede, who is the Capitals' all-time leader in assists, has struggled to regain his prior form since he underwent hip-resurfacing surgery in June 2022.

Games-Esports joins Pan Am Games, but medals won't count

Esports was welcomed - sort of - into the Pan American Games family on Wednesday, as gamers marched in their own opening ceremony and to their own anthem ahead of three days of competition that will not count towards the medal table. Gamers from 25 countries are kitted out in national team uniforms, live in the athletes village, have official credentials and can take part in Sunday's closing ceremonies.

Soccer-Man United booed off after Newcastle loss, West Ham knock out Arsenal

Manchester United were humbled 3-0 at home by Newcastle United in the League Cup fourth round as their dismal start to the season took a serious turn for the worse on Wednesday. Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag looked shell-shocked as his team were booed off the pitch and the Dutchman is under intense pressure following their 3-0 defeat by Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Tennis-Medvedev denies obscene gesture after Paris Masters loss

Russian Daniil Medvedev denied making an obscene gesture towards the crowd after losing 6-3 6-7(4) 7-6(2) to Bulgarian Grigor Dimitrov in the Paris Masters second round on Wednesday. World number three Medvedev walked off court at the end of the match examining his hand before pointing his middle finger at the stands.

Athletics-NYPD plan heightened marathon security, citing global tensions

Local law enforcement will implement heightened security measures for Sunday's New York City Marathon due to a rise in tensions around the globe, officials said on Wednesday. The top endurance athletes as well as the 50,000-odd runners taking part in the 26.2 mile race can expect "many layers of protection" through the iconic five-borough course, New York Police Department (NYPC) Commissioner Edward Caban told reporters.

Golf-Sorenstam surprised by invite to join Augusta National membership

Swedish golfing great Annika Sorenstam said on Wednesday she was surprised by the recent invitation for her to join the renowned Augusta National Golf Club and called it one of the happiest days of her life. Sorenstam, a 10-times major champion who has won 90 titles worldwide, is the first LPGA professional to become a member at the exclusive Augusta, Georgia-based golf club that has been home of the Masters since 1934.

NHL-League and union discuss on-ice safety after player's death in England

The National Hockey League (NHL) and the union representing its players have been in contact regarding further safety measures after a player in Britain's Elite Ice Hockey League died when an opposing player's skate blade cut his neck. American forward Adam Johnson's death, described as a "freak accident" by his team and being investigated by British police, sparked a dialogue on whether players at all levels of the game should be forced to wear neck protection.

Horse racing-'Safety comes above all,' Breeders' Cup CEO says following horse death

The safety of race horses is paramount, Breeders' Cup officials said on Wednesday, a day after the death of a three-year-old colt who was scheduled to compete at the World Championships at Santa Anita Park this weekend. Practical Move, who was the second choice for Saturday's $1 million Dirt Mile, suffered what race officials said was suspected to be a cardiac event when he collapsed and died after returning from a gallop.