Nick Kyrgios fell short of securing back-to-back singles victories for the first time in almost four years, losing to Japan’s Sho Shimabukuro in the Stuttgart Open round of 16 on Thursday.
The Australian, 31, was beaten 4-6, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4 after taking the opening set and producing another encouraging performance as he continues his return from long-term knee and wrist injuries.
Kyrgios had impressed earlier in the week with a straight-sets victory over world No. 36 Corentin Moutet, his first ATP singles win since 2022. Despite the defeat to Shimabukuro, he again showed signs of progress after playing just seven singles matches over the past four years.
The former Wimbledon finalist’s serve remained a major weapon throughout the contest, and he delighted spectators with one of his trademark underarm serves to force an error from Shimabukuro and clinch the first set.
Kyrgios was broken only once during the match, but the Japanese player lifted his level after the opening stanza, edging the second-set tiebreak before securing the decisive break in the ninth game of the final set.
The match also featured a brief exchange between Kyrgios and the chair umpire early in the deciding set after the Australian claimed he should have been informed that new balls would be introduced in the following game.
After the umpire responded, “I didn’t know you wanted to know,” Kyrgios questioned whether it remained common courtesy on tour to notify players in advance.
“I don’t know if you’re new or anything, but [for] as long as I’ve been on tour, the game before, it’s been like ‘new balls next game’. Because that’s courtesy. You know how you hold us accountable, I think we should hold you accountable too, yeah?” Kyrgios said.
The exchange was far less heated than many of Kyrgios’ past on-court disputes, prompting a Tennis Channel commentator to joke: “He’s just trying to fire himself up out there.”
Shimabukuro’s victory sends him through to his first ATP Tour quarter-final and is expected to lift the 28-year-old into the world’s top 100 for the first time.
“I’m really happy. Nick is a great player, and a big name in tennis,” Shimabukuro said. “It means a lot to win today.”
Kyrgios will now turn his attention to the Halle Open in Germany next week as he continues his push for a Wimbledon wildcard and looks to build momentum ahead of the grass-court Grand Slam.
Sydney Roosters chairman Nick Politis has reportedly made a generous personal donation to help former South Sydney Rabbitohs forward Jai Arrow in his battle with motor neurone disease (MND), setting aside one of rugby league’s fiercest rivalries.
The donation emerged as the Rabbitohs honoured Arrow before their match against the Brisbane Broncos at Accor Stadium on Thursday night. Arrow, joined by his partner Berina and daughter Ayla, became emotional as he walked through a guard of honour from both teams before ringing the club’s iconic Legacy Bell.
South Sydney also distributed commemorative posters and displayed “Thank you Jai #1166” around the stadium in recognition of Arrow’s contribution to the club.
Rabbitohs chief executive Blake Solly said the support shown across the game had been overwhelming.
“I just want to thank everyone that helped with the preparation… and making sure it was a fitting celebration and recognition of Jai’s career as a player,” Solly said.
“Jai’s in for an extremely tough fight, but he knows that the whole rugby league community is standing with him.”
Jai Arrow with his daughter Ayla before ringing the “Legacy Bell”. Photo: Mark Metcalfe / Getty Images.
According to The Daily Telegraph,Politis reportedly met Arrow during a chance encounter on a flight from Los Angeles last year and later contributed towards the costs of a recent trip to a neurological wellness facility in Spain.
The Broncos have also pledged support, announcing they will auction match-worn jerseys from the game, with proceeds going directly to Arrow.
Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs said the news had resonated across the sport.
“Anyone in the NRL who is going through something like that, even if you don’t know them, it hits you very hard,” Staggs said.
The Rabbitohs marked the occasion by wearing special “whiteout” jerseys and releasing a tribute message declaring: “We’ve got your back, Arrow.”
Former Sydney Hells Angels leader Angelo Pandeli was arrested in Bali after allegedly attempting to leave Indonesia on a private jet using a counterfeit Brazilian passport.
Indonesian immigration officials stopped the aircraft before departure and later found Pandeli hiding in the plane’s bathroom.
Authorities identified the 55-year-old Australian after determining the passport was fake. He was travelling with three foreign nationals on a flight reportedly destined for Mozambique.
Following his arrest, Pandeli was deported to Adelaide on Wednesday and permanently banned from entering Indonesia.
Angelo Pandeli.
Pandeli left Australia in 2018 shortly before police searched his Sydney home as part of an investigation into an alleged $250 million drug trafficking operation.
Although the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission later linked him to the so-called “Aussie Cartel”, a criminal network suspected of coordinating major drug importations into Australia, he has never been charged with any offence.
Australian authorities previously deported Pandeli from Dubai in 2024 without laying charges. His whereabouts had remained largely unknown since then.
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) confirmed it is working with Indonesian agencies regarding the circumstances of his detention but noted that Pandeli has not been charged with any offences in Australia.
US President Donald Trump has said that an agreement between Washington and Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and begin nuclear negotiations was underway. The peace deal could be signed as early as this weekend.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said that while much of the negotiating agreement has been finalised, Iran would not compromise on its red lines.
“Iran has not yet reached a final conclusion on an agreement,” he said.
Trump told reporters in Oval Office, “We just made a great settlement of the war with Iran.” He noted that the “finalisation of documents” is set to happen “over the next few days.”
“The stock market’s up about 1000 points. That means they like the deal,” he said. “Most importantly, we have a deal that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, which was the whole purpose of what we had to go through to get this, so it was a big, very big thing.”
These are the latest conflicting conflicting messages about peace negotiations from Washington and Tehran, with both parties struggling to reach an agreement since the start of the conflict in February.
Australian fugitive James Dalamangas was sentenced on Thursday in a court in Aigio, Greece to two years and nine months’ jail for illegal weapon possession and giving false testimony.
The 55-year-old remains in custody as he appeals the sentence. While the appeal is pending, Dalamangas’ sentence will not be enforced until another trial takes place.
This comes as Greek judicial authorities are still considering whether he should be returned to Australia to face charges over the 1999 stabbing death of George Giannopoulos in Sydney. Dalamangas is fighting this extradition to Australia.
James Dalamangas (L) has been arrested in Greece over the alleged murder of George Giannopoulos (R). Photo: AFP, NSW Police.
He is also the subject for an Interpol red notice, with the Australian Federal Police (AFP) renewing a $200,000 reward for this arrest in 2024.
Dalamangas was arrested in Aigio after being sought by Australian authorities and Interpol for almost three decades. He is accused of murdering Giannopoulos, who was allegedly stabbed in the neck and stomach while attempting to break up a fight at Sydney’s Pariziana nightclub on Anzac Day in 1999.
Dalamangas’ lawyer said his client denies the allegation and argued the offence is now time-barred under Greek law.
One of Australia’s most historic football clubs, Floreat Athena Football Club, is celebrating a major milestone in 2026, marking 75 years since its founding by Greek migrants in Perth and reaffirming its status as the oldest Greek Australian football club in the nation.
The club traces its origins to 1951, when a group of Greek migrants established the Hellenic Progress Association – Athena. Two years later, driven by a desire to compete in organised football, Athena entered the local competition and began its journey through Western Australian soccer.
In its formative years, the club played wherever grounds were available. Historical records even refer to the team as “West Perth Athenia,” a curious variation of the name that has become part of the club’s folklore.
Jim Litis and John Carey MLA.Bouzouki player Michael Anastas.
Over the decades, Athena evolved into one of Western Australia’s most successful and respected football institutions. The club attracted notable international players, including former Southampton veteran John Sydenham and Steve Stacey, the first African American footballer to play in England’s top division. Stacey later featured in his autobiography The Colour of Football wearing the Athena jersey at Lake Monger Velodrome, the club’s long-time home.
That venue remains one of Perth’s most significant sporting landmarks. Constructed for the 1962 Empire Games, the Lake Monger Velodrome is one of only two major surviving facilities from the event, alongside Beatty Park Aquatic Centre.
Athena’s golden era came during the 1980s when the club dominated Western Australian football, securing back-to-back cup victories in 1987, 1988 and 1989, as well as league honours and a coveted treble.
Dr John Yiannakis OAM author of Wisdom and Protection.John Andritsos (close up -sole surviving player from Athena’s inaugural team).
The club has also played a key role in developing football talent. Among its most notable products are former Socceroo Stan Lazaridis, who went on to play for West Ham United and now serves as Football Manager at Perth Glory, and Vas Kalogeracos, who represented Australia at youth level before playing professionally for Perth Glory.
Today, Floreat Athena operates from the redeveloped Litis Stadium, transformed through a $3 million Federal Government grant announced in 2018 and a further $800,000 state-funded lighting upgrade. The club now boasts more than 600 junior players and one of Western Australia’s premier boutique football venues.
As part of its 75th anniversary celebrations, the club commissioned respected historian Dr John Yiannakis to produce a commemorative book chronicling Athena’s rich history. The publication was officially launched at a gala dinner last weekend attended by sporting, political and community leaders.
Wide shot of room.Basil Zempilas with His Grace Bishop Elpidios, Rev Ioan Ancuta and Greek Consul to Perth Ms Eleni Georgopoulou.
Among those present were Member for Perth John Carey MLA, Opposition Leader Basil Zempilas, Greek Consul Eleni Georgopoulou, His Grace Bishop Elpidios of Perth, Hellenic Community of WA President Paul Afkos, major benefactor Jim Litis and family, Perth Glory CEO Anthony Radich and a number of former players, coaches and administrators.
One of the evening’s most moving moments came through tributes from past players and life members, including John Andritsos, the sole surviving player from Athena’s inaugural 1953 team. Arriving in Australia alone at just 15 years of age, Andritsos joined the club in its earliest days and remains a living link to its foundation generation.
Former championship-winning player, coach and current Vice President Ante Kovacevic reflected on the club’s enduring community spirit and the special place Athena has held throughout his career.
“After finishing up at Perth Glory, I was in negotiations with a few NPL clubs. Athena was obviously one of them, and after meeting club representatives it just felt that they wanted me as part of the club, the community and not just a business transaction for a player,” Kovacevic said.
“That is what local football is about.”
Kovacevic was a member of Athena’s famous unbeaten 2007 championship-winning side, a season he describes as one of the highlights of his career.
“We went through the season undefeated in 2007 with great coaching staff and a great bunch of teammates. It was one of the highlights of my career. Going all season undefeated is a memorable achievement as a sportsman,” he said.
After coaching and working interstate, Kovacevic remained closely connected to the club and returned in 2020 for another coaching stint. He later watched former teammate Vas Vujacic guide Athena to another championship in 2022.
Gary Adshead, Ante Kovacevic (current VP) Vas Vujacic (former championship player and league winning coach).MC Gary Adshead with twins Harry and Grace Thomson (playing in their 9th season at the club).
Now serving as Vice President, Kovacevic said he felt a responsibility to help the club rebuild following its relegation in 2025.
“Floreat Athena was my community club, and it felt like I’ve been there my whole life,” he said.
“When the club was relegated in 2025, I felt a sense of duty to put my time and effort into the club again and help it return to WA’s top flight.
“I’m now there as Vice President, continuing to give back to a club that has given me a home away from home.”
Seventy-five years after a small group of Greek migrants established a football club to bring their community together, Floreat Athena remains a proud symbol of Greek Australian sporting achievement and an enduring force in Western Australian football.
Kingsgrove High School has successfully delivered its annual Future Links Careers Week and Careers Expo, providing students with valuable opportunities to explore future career pathways, connect with industry professionals, and prepare for the world beyond school.
Future Links Careers Week 2026 commenced with an engaging and inspiring seminar delivered by Crazy Ideas College through its Future Ready program. The session challenged students to think about the rapidly changing world of work, explore emerging career opportunities, and reflect on the skills, experiences, and connections they will need to thrive in the future workforce.
Students from Years 7–12 were encouraged to envision a positive future, develop greater self-awareness, and gain a deeper understanding of the many pathways available to them after school. The interactive presentation sparked thoughtful discussion and inspired students to think boldly about their future aspirations.
Throughout the week, students participated in a range of career-focused activities and seminars designed to increase awareness of education, training, and employment opportunities while helping them make informed decisions about their future.
The week culminated in the highly anticipated Kingsgrove High School Careers Expo, bringing together a diverse range of universities, TAFE providers, registered training organisations, employers, apprenticeship and traineeship providers, and community organisations. The Expo provided students with a unique opportunity to engage directly with exhibitors, ask questions, gather information, and have meaningful conversations about their post-school options.
A special highlight of the event was an address by Sam Stratikopoulos, Deputy Mayor of Georges River Council, who encouraged students to embrace opportunities, engage with their community, and pursue their goals with confidence and determination.
Kingsgrove High School extended its sincere gratitude to Crazy Ideas College, all exhibitors, presenters, industry representatives, community partners, and staff who contributed to the success of Future Links Careers Week and the Careers Expo.
These initiatives reflect the school’s ongoing commitment to career education and ensuring every student is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate an increasingly complex and evolving world of work.
Careers Advisor at Kingsgrove High School Artemis Theodoris said: “Future Links Careers Week and the Careers Expo provide our students with invaluable opportunities to explore possibilities, connect with professionals, and gain insights that will help shape their future pathways. These experiences are an important part of preparing our students to become confident, informed, and successful lifelong learners.”
A coronial inquest into the deaths of 50 residents at St Basil’s Home for the Aged is set to resume in August, as the long-running inquiry continues to examine one of Victoria’s most significant aged care COVID-19 outbreaks.
The inquest, which has been underway for several years, is investigating the 2020 outbreak at the Fawkner facility, where 50 residents lost their lives, many of them members of Melbourne’s Greek community.
Coroner Liberty Sanger told the court the inquiry would resume in the week beginning August 3, when Mr Kontis and Ms Kos are expected to be questioned before final submissions are heard.
During the latest hearing today, the names of all 50 residents who died during the outbreak were read aloud, serving as a reminder of the lives lost and the profound impact on families and the wider community.
Spiros Vasilakis, whose mother Maria died during the outbreak, said families continued to seek answers.
“They’ve been compelled to give evidence, and it’s the right thing that had to happen because at the end of the day, these two people ran the place during that chaotic period,” he said outside court.
“They’re not going to escape public scrutiny, and that’s at least what I hope comes out of this.”
The inquest was previously delayed while WorkSafe Victoria pursued a separate prosecution against St Basil’s under occupational health and safety laws.
WorkSafe initially laid nine charges against the aged care provider. However, following extended discussions, St Basil’s pleaded guilty to one charge relating to whether five staff members had received adequate training and instruction on the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE) during the early stages of the pandemic. The remaining eight charges were withdrawn.
The Victorian County Court found St Basil’s had failed to properly train and supervise workers at the time. During the outbreak, the facility housed more than 90 residents and employed around 110 staff.
In sentencing, the court noted that the matter had taken more than five years to resolve and acknowledged that St Basil’s has since strengthened its systems and procedures.
In a statement at the time, St Basil’s said the organisation had undergone “a complete renewal of Board oversight and senior management” since the outbreak, adding that governance structures and day-to-day operations are now significantly different from those in place in 2020.
The vibrant sights, sounds and flavours of Cyprus will take centre stage later this month as the highly anticipated Cyprus Food & Wine Festival returns to Sydney, promising a day of authentic cuisine, live entertainment and cultural celebration for the whole family.
Hosted by the Cyprus Community of NSW and proudly presented by Byrdens Lawyers, the festival will be held on Sunday, 28 June 2026, from 12pm to 8pm at Eastlakes Sports Club.
Bringing together generations of Cypriot Australians and the wider community, the festival aims to showcase the rich culinary traditions, hospitality and cultural heritage that have long been at the heart of Cypriot identity.
Visitors can expect an immersive experience filled with traditional food, premium wines, live music, dance performances and family-friendly activities, transforming Eastlakes into a bustling Mediterranean village for the day.
From sizzling souvla and halloumi to traditional sweets and regional delicacies, festival-goers will have the opportunity to sample a diverse range of authentic Cypriot flavours while enjoying a festive atmosphere that celebrates the island’s unique blend of history, culture and community spirit.
Organisers say the event is designed not only as a celebration of Cyprus, but also as an opportunity to bring people together through food, music and shared cultural experiences.
Throughout the day, attendees will enjoy live entertainment, cultural performances and special guest appearances, creating a vibrant program that reflects both the traditions of Cyprus and the strength of the Cypriot Australian community.
The festival has become one of the community’s most anticipated annual events, attracting visitors from across Sydney who come to experience the warmth, hospitality and rich traditions that Cyprus is renowned for around the world.
Whether you’re reconnecting with your heritage, discovering Cypriot culture for the first time, or simply looking for a great day out with family and friends, the Cyprus Food & Wine Festival promises something for everyone.
With delicious food, quality wines, live entertainment and a welcoming community atmosphere, organisers are encouraging Sydneysiders to mark the date in their calendars and join the celebrations.
Event Details
What: Cyprus Food & Wine Festival 2026
When: Sunday, 28 June 2026
Time: 12pm – 8pm
Where: Eastlakes Sports Club
The Cyprus Food & Wine Festival is proudly presented by Byrdens Lawyers and organised by the Cyprus Community of NSW.
A meeting aimed at strengthening support for older members of Melbourne’s Greek community was recently held between President of the Greek Community of Melbourne (GCM), Bill Papastergiadis, and the newly elected President of the Federation of Greek Elderly Citizens Clubs of Melbourne and Victoria, Soteris Mavrommatis.
Held in a positive and constructive atmosphere, the meeting focused on ways to enhance cooperation between the two organisations and identify opportunities to better serve elderly members of the Greek Australian community.
Discussions centred on the exchange of ideas, the coordination of joint initiatives and the effective use of resources and capabilities available to both organisations. Particular emphasis was placed on developing practical measures that would strengthen services and support networks for senior members of the community.
During the meeting, Mr Papastergiadis reaffirmed the Greek Community’s commitment to working closely with the Federation.
“The Greek Community will stand alongside the Federation,” he said.
Mr Mavrommatis highlighted the importance of collaboration, unity and mutual respect in addressing the challenges facing older members of the community and ensuring they continue to receive meaningful support.
Both leaders expressed a shared commitment to working together to create more opportunities, improve services and strengthen assistance for elderly Greek Australians across Melbourne and Victoria.
The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to ongoing dialogue and cooperation, reflecting a common vision of promoting the wellbeing and inclusion of the Greek community’s senior citizens.
