Sept 10, V7N- Australia’s Davis Cup dreams have taken a hit as top player Alex de Minaur is ruled out of the group stage due to a lingering hip issue. De Minaur, who made a strong run to the U.S. Open quarterfinals, struggled with the injury and was eliminated by Britain’s Jack Draper. Australian team captain Lleyton Hewitt confirmed the news ahead of their clash with France in Valencia, expressing disappointment but confidence in the remaining squad. Australia, pooled with France, the Czech Republic, and Spain, is gearing up for a challenging battle as they aim to end their 21-year Davis Cup title drought.

In Major League Baseball, the Boston Red Sox defeated the Baltimore Orioles 12-3, with back-to-back homers by Rob Refsnyder and Tyler O’Neill in the third and eighth innings, leading the charge. Refsnyder had four hits and five RBIs, while Rafael Devers and O’Neill also contributed with multiple hits. This victory keeps Boston strong as the season pushes forward.

Turning to the NFL, Chicago Bears rookie receiver Rome Odunze has sustained a left MCL sprain. The injury occurred during a blocking assignment in Chicago's 24-17 season-opening win over the Tennessee Titans. Odunze had a spectacular second-quarter reception, leaping for a ball that bounced off a defender’s helmet, but fumbled upon landing. Luckily, teammate Teven Jenkins recovered it, helping set up a key field goal. Odunze’s injury status is still being evaluated after an MRI.

Meanwhile, in international football, New Zealand is set to face the U.S. in a friendly match as they prepare for their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. The All Whites are hoping to bounce back from a 3-0 loss to Mexico, while U.S. coach Mikey Varas faces pressure after their recent 2-1 loss to Canada.

Finally, Britain’s Jack Draper is set to join his Davis Cup team after a short break following his U.S. Open semi-final defeat to Jannik Sinner. Draper, who battled the intense New York heat, is working on his fitness ahead of Britain's matches against Finland, Argentina, and defending champions Canada in the Davis Cup Group D.

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