Zverev celebrates historic triumph: ntv.de’s sports roundup for Monday, June 8, 2026

Serena Williams is close to a dramatic return to competitive tennis, but she is still keeping open the question of whether she will play singles again. The 23-time Grand Slam champion, now 44, is scheduled to return in doubles at London’s Queen’s Club alongside 19-year-old Victoria Mboko. Speaking in London, Williams said she could not yet say yes or no about an individual comeback, explaining that at the moment the answer is no because she believes she still needs more training before entering singles. She added that if she cannot do it, then it simply is not her path right now. Williams also reflected on why she is coming back after nearly four years away from professional sport. She said she missed the atmosphere around tennis and the travel most of all, and noted that after playing the game her entire life, she had started to take it for granted. For the mother of two, several factors are influencing her decision, especially the chance for her children to see her play again.

In football, former Germany goalkeeper Almuth Schult voiced skepticism about Manuel Neuer’s expected return to the national team for the World Cup. Schult said Neuer was not the decisive player in Germany’s recent tournament exits, even though she still considers him the world’s best goalkeeper when he performs at his highest level. She said this season has shown he has not always been able to maintain that peak consistently. Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has brought Neuer back for the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada, which begins on June 11, after the veteran had retired from international duty following Euro 2024.

Elsewhere, former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp was awarded an honorary CBE by the British royal family for his outstanding services to football and his ongoing contribution to the people of Liverpool. Klopp, who led Mainz and Borussia Dortmund to success before moving into a global football role at Red Bull, already holds Germany’s Order of Merit.

In handball, Berlin’s former title-winning coach Jaron Siewert will join MT Melsungen next year. He will take over as head coach from the 2027-28 season on a contract through 2030, while also beginning in an advisory role next season.

England manager Thomas Tuchel said Jude Bellingham still faces strong competition for a place in the World Cup starting lineup. Tuchel said there are 14 or 15 possible starters and Bellingham is one of them.

Spain received encouraging fitness news as Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are expected to be available for the start of the World Cup. South Korea goalkeeper Kim Seung Gyu admitted he missed the birth of his first child because of tournament preparations.

Christian Eriksen’s collapse during Denmark’s match against Ukraine also drew reactions, with the national team doctor saying he is doing well and should soon return home. In motorsport, Mick Schumacher recorded his best IndyCar finish of the season with 16th place in Madison, Illinois.