Naomi Osaka Tennis, Anyone??? ... Returns From Hiatus
-
Breaking News
- 206 shares
She's baaaaaack!!!
After 2 months away from the sport, Naomi Osaka has made her return to tennis ... posting shots on the court to announce her comeback after a 2-month break.
"kinda rusty but feels good to be back 🎾💕," she said via Instagram on Friday. "I really want to say thank you everyone for all the kind messages, I really appreciate it ❤️."
The 24-year-old pro said back in September she intended to step away from the game to focus on herself after an upset loss at the U.S. Open in September ... admitting wins made her feel more relief than happiness.
Osaka was #3 in the world at the time ... and now, she's sitting at #13.
The superstar looks happy on the court while throwing up a peace sign and a smile ... which means she might be ready to get back to competing here soon.
As we previously reported, Osaka has been outspoken on her battles with mental health ... previously boycotting the media at the French Open, which resulted in a fine.
She also backed out of Wimbledon earlier this year to focus on her personal time.
Worth noting -- Osaka also posted an up-close shot of a tennis ball with the Australian Open logo on it ... so maybe we'll see her back competing in January?!?
related articles
Aaron Martens Pro Bass Angler Dead At 49 ... After Cancer Battle
-
Breaking News
- 85 shares
Pro bass angler Aaron Martens -- a 3-time Bassmaster Angler of the Year -- has passed away after a battle with brain cancer. He was 49 years old.
Martens was a legend in the sport -- he won 9 Bassmaster tournaments over two decades ... earning more than $3 million in prize money.
Known as the "Furious Hog Snatcher," Martens was nominated for Best Outdoor Sportsman at the 2005 ESPY Awards.
Major League Fishing released a statement on the tragic news ... saying, "There are many, many words that could be used to describe Aaron -- talented, competitive, kind, creative, funny, thoughtful, gifted, sweet, quirky, generous."
"The world knew Aaron because of his brilliance at his craft, but for those who were fortunate enough to enjoy his presence in their lives, he’ll be remembered for the roles he played (and loved) the very best: loving father, devoted husband, beloved son and brother, dear friend and faithful believer."
Fellow fishing star Bill Dance shared his condolences on Twitter ... saying, "He was a class act and just a doggone good guy that our industry and all anglers are sure gonna miss."
"He was just so happy and genuine, just a dadgum GOOD GUY," he added. "Definitely a keeper that's going to be missed! Our family's thoughts and prayers go out to his family."
"You were one of the best Aaron! Rest In Peace my friend."
Martens is survived by his wife, his 2 children, and his mother.
related articles
Madonna Surprise Appearance at amfAR Event They Didn't Save Best for Last, I Was Just Late!!!
Madonna was the surprise guest at the amfAR event Thursday night in West Hollywood, and as she paid homage to her friend who was being honored, she underscored the fact AIDS is not a thing of the past.
Around 500 people jammed into the Pacific Design Center in WeHo, including Ashley Benson, Addison Rae, Bella Thorne, Diplo, Bebe Rexha and OneRepublic.
Toward the end of the night, an auctioneer announced a photo of Madge would be auctioned off ... even signed by Madonna herself. Then, suddenly, Madonna walked on stage and gave a 15-minute speech honoring her friend, artist Jeremy Scott, but also talking about AIDS and how it lingers as a pandemic decades after it surfaced.
She also went back in time when AIDS ravaged the gay community back in the '80s and she became a voice in the pandemic ... she said people thought she had AIDS. She made it clear to folks she didn't, but simply wanted to help.
BTW ... the photo sold for $70k.
related articles
Chris Johnson Titans Still 'Team To Beat' ... Despite Henry Injury
-
Exclusive
- 81 shares
A shot at a Titans Super Bowl title did not end when Derrick Henry got injured Sunday ... so says Chris Johnson, who tells TMZ Sports Tennessee is still "the team to beat."
Of course, most disagree with CJ2K ... considering Henry -- who's expected to miss the rest of the season after foot surgery Tuesday -- was the leading rusher in the league and by far the Titans' best player before his injury.
this was the final rushing play for derrick henry before we saw him on the sideline with the foot injury
— 🌵 (@SimplyAS10prod) November 1, 2021 @SimplyAS10prod
not sure if it happened on this play but it’s the only thing i can find pic.twitter.com/7zK9oGhiY8
But, Johnson says he doesn't expect a dip at all from the Titans going forward ... saying there's just too many playmakers on the roster to allow that to happen.
"We got a good quarterback," the ex-Titans star said. "We got two good receivers out there. So we should be all right."
Johnson tells us he expects to see Tennessee turn into more of a passing team ... though he did say he's confident if the team needs to rely on the newly signed Adrian Peterson, it can do that as well.
"Adrian's been able to show that he's been able to come in and can contribute to whatever team that he goes to," Johnson said.
The former running back explained a Titans' Super Bowl run is still more than possible ... and even delivered an uplifting message to downtrodden Tennessee fans.
The first game without Henry is slated for Sunday night against the Rams -- who, by the way, just added Von Miller to the roster this week.
Good luck!
related articles
Joe Exotic My 'Aggressive Cancer' is Back ... Wants Prison Release for Treatment
Joe Exotic's health is taking a major turn for the worse as the disgraced zookeeper remains behind bars ... telling fans he has "aggressive cancer."
The 'Tiger King' star says he recently had a biopsy performed on his prostate, and doctors let him know the results Wednesday. He says he doesn't want sympathy, instead, he wants his voice to be heard and for an immediate release so he can get treatment at home.
Joe's attorney, John Phillips, tells TMZ ... he plans to file a motion requesting compassionate release from his federal prison in Texas. It sounds like JE's condition must be pretty bad, because Phillips added that any delay in getting their motion before a judge could prove fatal.
Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.
While Joe is hopeful cancer treatment can help, it appears he's also acknowledging the outlook could be grim, noting if treatment doesn't work, he'd like to, "enjoy what life I have left with my loved ones!"
True to form, Joe also mentioned Carole Baskin on Wednesday, saying he's sure "Carole will have her own party over this!"
As we reported, Joe said he was "ready to die" in August after fears his cancer had spread to his pelvis and stomach.
Obviously, it's still too early to know what kind of treatment Joe will get, but he's certainly stayed busy behind bars ... helping to launch a weed line and underwear line, while still fighting to prove his innocence.
related articles
Saints' Michael Thomas I'm Out For Season After Ankle Injury Setback
-
Breaking News
- 8 shares
The hits just keep on coming for the Saints -- 'cause just two days after the team lost quarterback Jameis Winston, it's now lost Michael Thomas too.
The star wide receiver -- who many at one point considered the best wideout in football -- announced Wednesday he's done for the season after suffering another setback with his ankle injury.
"To my displeasure," Thomas said in a statement on social media, "I will not be able to make it back in time for this season."
— Michael Thomas (@Cantguardmike) November 3, 2021 @Cantguardmike
Thomas insinuated the injury -- which he initially suffered at the beginning of the 2020 season -- could need some kind of medical procedure, saying he and doctors "will have to address" the issue.
The 28-year-old, who signed a monster 5-year, $96 MILLION contract extension back in 2019, did vow to return as good as ever in 2022.
"I know God doesn't make mistakes so I will continue to follow in his path," Thomas said, "and I can't wait to be back on the field in front of the best fans on the planet."
The news is obviously a tough one for New Orleans ... particularly after Winston tore up his knee during the Saints' win over the Buccaneers on Sunday.
related articles
Aaron Rodgers Tests Positive For COVID-19 ... Out For Chiefs Game
-
Breaking News
- 583 shares
Aaron Rodgers vs. Patrick Mahomes will now not happen -- at least not this week -- 'cause the Packers star has contracted coronavirus and is now out of Green Bay's game against the Chiefs.
Rodgers tested positive Wednesday, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, and told teammates just minutes ago that he'd be missing Sunday's tilt with K.C.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport added the quarterback is not vaccinated -- and that's why he's already been ruled out of the weekend matchup.
Much-hyped backup Jordan Love -- who the team took in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft -- is expected to start in Rodgers' place.
Rodgers hasn't missed a regular-season start for Green Bay since the 2017 season. In 8 games for this year, he piled up 16 passing TDs and just 6 INTs.
The Packers have been rocked by COVID recently ... just last week, they were without top wideouts Davante Adams and Allen Lazard due to positive tests.
Story developing ...
related articles
Mardy Fish My Wife Helped Me Overcome Anxiety ... Saved Me From 'Bad Place'
-
Exclusive
- 51 shares
Tennis legend Mardy Fish says he might not be alive if it weren't for his wife ... crediting her with getting him out of a really bad place with his mental health struggles.
Mardy joined us on "TMZ Live" Tuesday and got real with us about some of his bouts with anxiety, which became so overwhelming at one point he pulled out at the last minute from a big U.S. Open match with Roger Federer .... years before professional athletes opened up about their mental health struggles.
The way Mardy tells it ... his better half, Stacey Gardner, was able to pull him out from a dark place and change his perspective with some sage advice at a moment when he was having panic attacks every single day. The epiphany gave him the strength to withdraw from the 2012 U.S. Open match he was supposed to play. Instead, he faced the media and was candid about his issues.
Mardy went on to champion mental health and how it affects athletes in particular, who traditionally were trained to bottle up their emotions because it was viewed as weakness.
Mardy, who was diagnosed with severe anxiety disorder, is now mentoring young tennis players dealing with some of the same issues he went through ... and there's a new Netflix documentary on his journey, "Untold: Breaking Point." He's also the captain of the U.S. Davis Cup team.
MF says it's encouraging to see other athletes -- like Naomi Osaka and Simone Biles -- speaking out about their own inner battles ... and tells us why it's OK for folks to let others know they aren't OK.
related articles
Jason Momoa Quarantining with Pro Skateboarder ... After Catching COVID
Jason Momoa is killing time as he quarantines after contracting COVID-19 -- but he at least has some good (and skilled) company that'll flip his wig ... not to mention flipping a board.
The "Aquaman" star is isolating at his crib -- this after coming down with the virus following the premiere of his newest flick, "Dune," in London a couple weeks ago. He's got an update for fans ... he's doing alright, and his quarantine buddy is totally shredding.
It looks like Jason is hunkering down with pro skateboarder Erik Ellington ... whom he refers to as his roommate. He threw up a video of the guy doing a kickflip inside the residence ... going from the top of one step down to the kitchen floor, which impressed JM.
Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.
Unclear why exactly they're sheltering in place together -- presumably Erik also caught the 'rona while in Jason's company -- but in any case ... they're keeping each other entertained.
BTW, Jason also knows how to shred the gnar ... guy's a seasoned skater himself, and was hitting half pipes during the pandemic last year.
Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.
Anyway, check out this video ... besides the sweet tricks going down at his pad, Jason also seems to be ready to roll out a new sneaker he's been working on that's environmentally friendly.
He calls 'em Drifters, and they're being released through shoe company So iLL. He's pretty stoked about the collab -- and is in pretty good spirits in general. Get well soon, dude!
related articles
Rev. Jesse Jackson Hospitalized After Fall, Hitting Head During Howard U. Visit
Rev. Jesse Jackson is back in the hospital -- though this time not COVID-related -- instead, for a nasty fall.
Jackson was visiting Howard University in Washington D.C. Monday when his team says he fell and hit his head as he entered a building on campus. Jesse was rushed to a local hospital for a myriad of tests, including a CT scan ... his rep says all results came back normal.
Nonetheless, doctors decided to keep Jackson at the hospital overnight just to be safe.
The 80-year-old has faced some significant health problems as of late. Both he and his wife, Jacqueline, were hospitalized with COVID back in August. Once Jesse -- who was vaccinated -- was released from the hospital, he entered a rehab facility to deal with his Parkinson's disease.
Jesse went to Howard to support students who've been protesting dorm conditions for the last few weeks ... including issues with rodents, mold and flooding in the buildings.
related articles
Quavo To Calvin Ridley ... Get Well Soon
-
Exclusive
- 34 shares
Quavo is hoping time away from the Falcons is what Calvin Ridley needs ... telling TMZ Sports he wants to see the Atlanta star receiver get better ASAP.
We got the rapper -- who's one of the biggest Falcons fans on the planet -- out in NYC on Monday ... and he made it clear he has no issues whatsoever with Ridley stepping away from his favorite team in order to focus on his mental health.
Quavo wished Ridley a speedy recovery ... telling our camera guy before heading into a secret show for NBA Top Shot, "I hope he get well."
Ridley missed the Falcons' game against the Jets earlier this season for a personal matter ... and after missing the team's loss to the Panthers for the same reason -- the 26-year-old explained he's been battling mental health issues the last few weeks and needs time away from the gridiron.
— CALVIN RIDLEY (@CalvinRidley1) October 31, 2021 @CalvinRidley1
"I need to step away from football at this time and focus on my mental wellbeing," he said Sunday. "This will help me be the best version of myself now and in the future."
No timetable has been given for a potential return to the lineup ... but every one from his teammates to his former head coach, Dan Quinn, has supported his decision.
Ridley -- who was picked by the Falcons in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft -- has started 5 games for Atlanta this season ... scoring two touchdowns.
related articles
Ravens LB Malik Harrison Shot In Cleveland Non-Life-Threatening Injury
-
Breaking News
- 10 shares
Ravens linebacker Malik Harrison caught a stray bullet in the calf while at a gathering in Cleveland during the teams bye week, Baltimore announced on Monday, saying fortunately the injuries are not life-threatening.
Harrison, 23, was a third-round draft pick of the Ravens in 2020. Malik has played in all 7 of the Ravens games this seasons, racking up 44 combined tackles.
"On Sunday night while attending a gathering in Cleveland, Malik Harrison sustained a non-life-threatening injury after being struck by a stray bullet in the left calf," the Ravens said in a statement.
"Malik, who received medical care at a local hospital, has been in touch with our team doctors and will return to Baltimore today."
It's unclear what kind of event 6'3", 247 lb. Harrison attended ... or who was the intended target of the shooting.
Harrison -- who was First Team All-Big Ten at Ohio State in 2019 -- has played in 23 games throughout his 2-year professional career ... compiling 66 total tackles.
The first place Ravens are set to take on the Vikings in Baltimore this Sunday. It's unclear how much time Harrison will miss.
Story developing ...
related articles
Jameis Winston Injured QB Dances On Crutches ... To Celebrate Saints W
-
Breaking News
- 8 shares
9:43 AM PT -- The bad news has been confirmed -- Jameis Winston is out for the season with a torn ACL and damaged MCL, according to Ian Rapoport.
Jameis Winston could potentially be out for the season with an injury, but that didn't stop the QB from dancing his ass off with his crutches to celebrate a huge Saints win over Tom Brady and the Buccaneers!!
Jameis went down with a possible ACL and MCL injury in the second quarter of New Orleans' matchup with Tampa Bay on Sunday ... after getting hit by TB linebacker Devin White.
A look at the Jameis Winston injury…
— Michael Fabiano (@Michael_Fabiano) October 31, 2021 @Michael_Fabiano
pic.twitter.com/5UmtLCMQlW
While an emotional Sean Payton said Winston's injury could be "significant" -- and reports claiming it could be season-ending -- ya wouldn't be able to tell by Jameis' spirits in the locker room after the game ... 'cause the dude was dancing up a storm!!
C.J. Gardner-Johnson's Instagram Live session caught the whole celebration after the 36-27 victory ... with all the players dancing as Nardo Wick's "Who Want Smoke??" blares in the background.
The injury is a huge bummer for Winston and the Saints -- he had been playing well with 14 touchdowns, just 3 interceptions and a quarterback rating of 102.8 -- but the dude's focus was clearly on the team's effort after the game.
Trevor Siemian was able to come in and secure the win for NOLA ... and hey, if you can beat the defending champs, the season might not be lost.
Originally Published -- 6:06 AM PT
related articles
White House Press Sec. Jen Psaki Positive for COVID ... Not With Biden in Rome
-
Breaking News
- 2K shares
President Biden's press secretary, Jen Psaki, says she's come down with COVID-19 ... but is away from POTUS and has been for several days now.
Psaki revealed Sunday that she'd tested positive for the virus -- this after multiple days of testing negative upon learning people in her household had caught it. She was supposed to hit Europe with JB, but scrapped those plans after learning her family members were sick.
Sharing full statement and grateful I am vaccinated and for the amazing Biden team pic.twitter.com/QDokXo47dK
— Jen Psaki (@PressSec) October 31, 2021 @PressSec
The Press Secretary also notes she was last in contact with Biden on Tuesday ... just before he flew to Rome, where he's currently at for the G20 summit. She notes they were standing at least six feet apart then, and were also wearing masks.
Psaki says, "I am disclosing today's positive test out of an abundance of transparency," adding ... "Thanks to the vaccine, I have only experienced mild symptoms which has enabled me to continue working from home."
She goes on to explain she'll return to the WH after a full 10-day quarantine period, and obviously after a negative test is once again registered.
Unclear if White House press briefings will continue this week with someone in Psaki's place.
related articles
Hilaria Baldwin Worried Alec Will Develop PTSD ... After 'Rust' Shooting
Hilaria Baldwin thinks her husband, Alec, will develop post-traumatic stress disorder after the shooting that claimed Halyna Hutchins' life ... which is partly why they fled New York.
The actor's spouse revealed the reason behind their family's travel to Vermont, saying they needed to get away from all the madness following the fatal accident ... this according to the NYPost, who snagged a one-on-one interview on Saturday, separate from their pap encounter.
It also sounds like she was tasked with finding a solitary place for them all, telling the outlet she drove around "an entire day" before settling on Manchester, VT ... and before Alec and co. eventually joined her. She says they needed to get away to "mourn Halyna's death."
She added, "Alec had a really traumatic thing happen, and I am trying to limit the PTSD."
HB went on to compare Alec's situation to that of a war vet or cop ... who might normally develop the affliction -- saying, "You look at what happens to soldiers and police officers when something like this happens, it's traumatic. We just came up here for quiet."
She also spoke on whether her hubby would ever act again, and the Post says she replied she was "hopeful but not certain." Hilaria also said, "He needs space for me to take care of him and his mental health. It's an awful thing that happened. Alec feels awful."
Hilaria also echoed something Alec himself said on camera -- that this sort of thing shouldn't have happened, and tighter regulations need to be in place. She's clearly standing by her man, taking to IG after their eventful weekend to post a photo of their hands intertwined.
Waiting for your permission to load the Instagram Media.
She writes, "I love you and I'm here❤️."
related articles
Jon Bon Jovi Not Tonight, Fans .... I Got COVID
Jon Bon Jovi was supposed to spend Saturday night on stage, but instead, he spent it in bed ... because of COVID.
Bon Jovi was supposed to perform at the Loews South Beach in Miami Beach, but before the concert began Jon's brother took the stage and told the crowd Jon would not be performing because he tested positive for COVID.
Turns out everyone in the band took a rapid test before the concert and Jon's turned up positive.
A Bon Jovi rep said Jon was fully vaccinated ... unclear, however, if the 59-year-old got a booster.
Jon Bon Jovi cancels Miami concert. Tested positive for COVID according to staff. @jonbonjovi @wsvn pic.twitter.com/Hrvn7ETEwG
— Jessica Holly (@JhollyW) October 30, 2021 @JhollyW
The rep says he's feeling good, but planned on spending the night in bed. He left Bon Jovi style ... in a yellow Maserati.
As for the concert, the other band members -- all of whom tested negative -- stuck around and played for the crowd.
BTW ... last year Jon's 18-year-old son tested positive for COVID, along with his keyboard player and percussionist.
COVID's clearly still a thing.