ROME -- The 2024 Indian Wells ATP Masters 1000 tournament exceeded all expectation. Which isn’t to say it was an unalloyed joy for on-site fans. Christened the Sunshine Double – the event’s first leg in the California desert was short on heat and long on precipitation. Rain frequently interrupted matches in the early rounds, and temperatures for evening events plunged to the mid-50’s, leaving many courtside seats conspicuously empty and others occupied by shivering spectators huddled under umbrellas, as if at Wimbledon.

 ROME – Inter Milan’s title charge was slowed down by Napoli after they drew 1-1 at the San Siro, their first domestic match without a win in 12 games. 

 Although Inter pulled ahead in the first half thanks to a goal from Matteo Darmian, they were held to a draw after Juan Jesus in the 81^st minute. Both teams were knocked out of the Europa Champions League last week by Spanish clubs. 

 BRISTOL -- Italy spoiled George North’s farewell international appearance as an assured Azzurri performance saw them close out their best ever Six Nations campaign at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff. In a match to decide who would take home the wooden spoon, Gonzalo Quesada’s side produced a comfortable performance which was not entirely reflected by the narrow scoreline.