Zidane offers apology, but limits it to fans
In his first public comments since Sunday’s World Cup final, French soccer star Zinedine Zidane repeatedly apologized to fans Wednesday – especially to children. But he said he didn’t regret the abrupt, violent outburst that marked the end of his illustrious 18-year professional career.
Zidane and Italy’s Marco Materazzi had exchanged words when Zidane lowered his head and rammed Materazzi in the chest, knocking him to the ground.
The act marred the end of the World Cup, with many warning it would tarnish the legacy of Zidane.
“Italy coach Marcello Lippi has resigned three days after guiding the Azzurri to their fourth World Cup title.
Lippi suggested weeks ago that he would resign as a result of personal attacks on him and his family stemming from the recent corruption scandal surrounding Italian soccer.
Football
Roethlisberger talks
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger said that he was told he was “seconds, maybe a minute away from dying” immediately after his motorcycle accident last month.
Roethlisberger told ESPN’s “SportsCenter” that he doesn’t remember much about the accident when he rammed his motorcycle into a car on a Pittsburgh street. He did, however, remember what he was told by people at the scene.
“Pittsburgh wide receiver Santonio Holmes entered a plea of not guilty to a disorderly conduct charge that occurred in Miami Beach.
“Police arrested 21-year-old Chase M. Williams as a suspect in the stabbing of Ravens linebacker Roderick Green in a Baltimore bowling alley parking lot. The 24-year-old Green was treated at a local hospital and released.
Hockey
No president tabbed
The NHL Players’ Association met but didn’t settle on a replacement for outgoing president Trevor Linden, who won’t seek re-election.
“Calgary Flames coach Darryl Sutter is stepping down and will be replaced by assistant Jim Playfair.
Miscellany
Williams sets return
Serena Williams will play her first tennis match in six months next week in Cincinnati. A chronic knee injury has kept her sidelined.
“Basketball players Greg Oden of Indianapolis and Tina Charles of New York City were honored as High School Athletes of the Year.
“Olympic discus champion Natalya Sadova of Russia faces a two-year ban after testing positive for steroids.
“Olympic skier Kristina Koznick retired after three Olympics.
“Jesse Schutte ousted defending champion Clay Ogden 2-and-1 in match play at the 81st annual U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship in Bremerton, Wash.