Beijing opened the Paralympic Games in spectacular fashion on Saturday, an event China's leaders hope will show them in a compassionate light.

Beijing opened the Paralympic Games in spectacular fashion on Saturday, an event China's leaders hope will show them in a compassionate light.

KARACHI, Pakistan (Reuters) - South Africa have turned down a request from the Pakistan cricket Board to organise a one-day series this month, saying their players needed a rest after a hectic tour of England.

Donington Park, due to replace Silverstone as the British Formula One Grand Prix venue in 2010, has submitted plans for the first phase of a major track re-development.

England owe their fans something to cheer about after two years of disappointment, said captain John Terry ahead of their opening World Cup qualifying match against Andorra on Saturday.

SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS, Belgium (Reuters) - Lewis Hamilton struggled to find words for his euphoria on Saturday after roaring to pole position at one of the sport's most exhilarating circuits.

SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS, Belgium (Reuters) - McLaren's Lewis Hamilton seized pole position from Ferrari rival Felipe Massa at the Belgian Grand Prix on Saturday to boost his Formula One title hopes.

Roger Federer battled past Serbian Novak Djokovic 6-3 5-7 7-5 6-2 on Saturday to reach the final of the U.S. Open for the fifth successive year.

By Mark Lamport-Stokes

Gordon Smith has applauded Scotland's players for agreeing for forgo their win bonuses unless they reach the World Cup.

Birmingham boss Alex McLeish says Celtic defender Bobo Balde chose not to leave the Scottish champions 'on a matter of principle'.

Arsenal midfielder Samir Nasri hopes his summer move to The Emirates will allow him to become an established French international.

England Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce muted his players' celebrations as they reached the play-offs for next year's European Championship.

England Under-21 keeper Joe Hart says Fabio Capello will not be able to ignore the international claims of Gabriel Agbonlahor for much longer.

Scott Carson says he is "reasonably happy" with the start to his West Brom career - and has targeted a recall to the senior England squad.

Nigel Worthington's patriotic pride can give Northern Ireland the edge they need in their bid to reach the World Cup finals in South Africa.

Fulham boss Roy Hodgson believes he has created a platform for Premier League achievement after trimming down the squad he inherited.

Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas feels it would be 'suicidal' for his career if he were to sign for Premier League moneybags Manchester City.

Ghana goalkeeper Richard Kingson has confirmed he is hoping to sign for a Premier League club on a free transfer having left Birmingham.

Roger Federer stormed into his fifth successive U.S. Open final on Saturday but his challenger will not be known for another 24 hours after heavy rain washed away the rest of the day's play at Flushing Meadows.