ATHLETICS
Oct. 12 — Coach Banned for Life in Pakistan
The Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) has issued a lifetime ban against Salman Butt, the coach of Olympic javelin champion Arshad Nadeem, for “gross violations” of its constitution. The decision, announced after an executive committee meeting, bars Butt permanently from all athletics activities in any capacity, both nationally and internationally. The ban comes amid an AFP inquiry into Nadeem’s recent performance decline, where he finished 10th at the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo. Butt had attributed the result to Tokyo’s heat, humidity, and the athlete’s calf pain.
The AFP also nullified the August 31 elections of the Punjab Athletics Association (PAA), which Butt was contesting, declaring them “illegal, unconstitutional, and null and void.” The federation cited a severe lack of transparency, noting the election was announced with only two days’ notice, violating the required 21-day minimum.
In a related action, former PAA secretary Habib Shah was banned for 10 years. A new management committee has been formed to oversee fresh, transparent elections for the provincial body.
AFP President Wajahat Sahi stated the actions were necessary to uphold organizational integrity and that Butt retains the right to appeal the ban.
BASKETBALL
Oct. 5 — Kyrie Irving Update
Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving says there is “no timetable” for his return from ACL surgery, making it clear he won’t rush his comeback. Speaking on Twitch, Irving asked fans not to pressure him with return questions, emphasizing that he’s focused on a measured recovery and appreciates the support through his “down times.”
Irving, 33, tore his ACL in March. While a typical recovery would point to a December or January return, both he and coach Jason Kidd are prioritizing long-term health.
Irving averaged 24.7 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists last season. With Anthony Davis and No. 1 draft pick Cooper Flagg, Dallas hopes to contend in the West—on Kyrie’s schedule.
SHOOTING
Oct. 1–5 — European Champions League of Air Weapons
Host nation Türkiye dominated the European Champions League of Air Weapons, winning gold in all three team events. Veteran shooter Yusuf Dikec, who gained global attention at the Paris 2024 Olympics for his minimalist shooting style, led the charge.
Dikec teamed with Mustafa Inan to claim the men’s 10m air pistol team gold, defeating Germany’s Christian Reitz and Paul Froehlich 2–0. After the win, Dikec praised the home support and called the event a key stepping stone toward the upcoming World Championships in Cairo.
In the women’s 10m air rifle, Damla Kose and Elif Berfin Altun overcame Norway to secure gold, while Esra Bozabali and Sevval Ilayda Tarhan topped France in the 10m air pistol team final. With these wins, Türkiye swept all team golds at the event.
TENNIS
Oct. 22 — Kazakhstan recognized among world’s top tennis nations
The International Tennis Federation (ITF) has elevated Kazakhstan to its second-highest membership tier by increasing its voting allocation from seven to nine. The decision, supported by 91% of delegates, places Kazakhstan alongside nations like Italy, Spain, Canada, and Japan. ITF President Bulat Utemuratov stated the move reflects Kazakhstan’s independent assessment results, junior and senior national team success, and a growing participation base of over 17,500 children training regularly nationwide.
Photo: Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving says there is “no timetable” for his return from ACL surgery. (Credit: Erik Drost/AA)
