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Novak Djokovic: One week to forget the world number 1 after the failure of the tennis exhibition

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Novak Djokovic: One week to forget the world number 1 after the failure of the tennis exhibition

In contrast, the Serbian top player was involved in damage limitation exercises after his exhibition tour in the Balkans, which was intended as an uplifting moment during a sports hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic, was canceled when Djokovic, his wife Jelena, three other players. , three coaches and one pregnant wife of the player tested positive for the virus.

Unlike other exhibitions during the pandemic, there is limited social distance on the Adria Tour, which is played in a crowded stadium, with players hugging and respecting each other, playing basketball and dancing together.

“He doesn’t have a good lockup,” British sports marketing expert Tim Crow said it bluntly in a telephone interview with CNN Sport.

When Djokovic announced in May that he would host the Adria Tour, it seemed like tennis was slowly emerging from the close, which had led to Wimbledon’s first cancellation since World War II.

The Adria tour, which is scheduled to be played in four cities from June 13 to July 5, has attracted three times grand slam finalist Dominic Thiem from Austria, world number 7 Alexander Zverev from Germany and main semifinalist Grigor Dimitrov from three times. Bulgaria, among others. Djokovic’s 24-year-old brother, Djordje, was appointed as director of the tournament.

Speaking at a launch press conference on May 27, Djokovic said he was “very happy” to announce the series, which was organized by him and his family. He stressed “absolutely all income” from that would go to humanitarian organizations, before proudly announcing that all players would play for free.

He also said the tour would “follow and abide by” local rules and regulations.

Borna Coric, Grigor Dimitrov, Novak Djokovic and Alexander Zverev (left to right) pose for a group shot ahead of the exhibition basketball game in Zadar, Croatia.
READ: Djokovic tested positive for coronavirus

Belgrade party

When Djokovic played his first match against fellow Serbian Viktor Troicki on Saturday afternoon June 13 in Belgrade, around 4,000 spectators had filled the stadium near the Danube river to capacity, with some fans wearing masks. Players, good friends, embrace after Djokovic wins in straight sets.

They also shook hands with the referee, while the ball children handed over their towels. They took selfies with fans afterwards, and signed autographs.

Serbia and Croatia, which did not experience major virus outbreaks, recently raised many lockouts. But the Serbian government still asks people to remain one meter apart. Lack of social distance makes many people stunned.

“As if Coronavirus has passed?” wrote former UK number 1 Greg Rusedski on Twitter two days later. “How is this managed and why is there no concern for public social distance and facing masks. I know the numbers in Serbia but why can they do this?”

The seemingly carefree nature of the event, which took place several days after a crowd of 20,000 attended a soccer match in Belgrade, also surprised Crow, the former chief executive of the London-based sports marketing agency, Synergy.

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“It’s chaotic,” he said. “As soon as you turn on the TV, you think, ‘Wait a minute, what is happening here?’ And unfortunately, we all know what happened. “

Also during the weekend, players including Djokovic, Thiem, Zverev and Dimitrov were dancing was filmed in a crowded Belgrade nightclub.

Behind the closed door

The limited social distance on the Adria Tour contrasts sharply with other exhibitions during pandemics in the US, Germany, Britain and France, all of which are held in private.

When Patrick Mouratoglou, former coach of Williams Williams, wanted to host an event at his academy in the south of France during lockdown, he reached out to the government. That sent him a long list of protocols, which he had applied in his Ultimate Tennis Showdown series.

“I want to be sure to do it in a way where there is no risk,” Mouratoglou told CNN Sport in a telephone interview on Friday.

This includes all players tested the day before the match every weekend, no fans, no handshakes or sharing the ball between players, ball children wearing gloves and masks and sufficient distance between each seat in the player box.

Speaking at the ceremonial opening of the Adria Tour the day before the match against Troicki, Djokovic defended the limited social distance from the crowd.

He stressed Serbia had “better numbers” compared to other countries. According to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Resource Center, Serbia has had 13,372 confirmed cases, including 264 deaths. The neighboring country, Croatia, has registered 2,483 cases, including 107 deaths.

“You can also criticize us and say this might be dangerous, but it’s not up to me to make calls about what is right and wrong for health,” added Djokovic. “We did what the Serbian government told us.”

Spectators watched the match on the Adria Tour in Zahar, Croatia on Sunday June 21, 2020. Later that day, tennis player Grigor Dimitrov said he had tested positive using Covid-19, which led to the cancellation of the entire Adria Tour.

Dimitrov’s bomb

The next leg of the Adria Tour on June 20-21 once again attracted thousands of spectators, including Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, who briefly met with Djokovic. Because Croatia has reduced its locking steps before the event, players and fans don’t have to stick to the rules of social distance.

Then came the announcement of a bomb by Dimitrov on Sunday June 21 that he had tested positive for the corona virus.

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The committee quickly canceled the whole series, while most of the other players were tested on the same night. Then, on Monday, Borna Coric from Croatia confirmed that he had also tested positive, while Zverev, former US Open winner Marin Cilic from Croatia and Andrey Rublev from Russia were all declared negative but promised to isolate themselves for 14 days as a precautionary measure.

Spectators watch a tennis match during an exhibition tournament in Zadar, Croatia, Sunday, June 21, 2020.

Troicki revealed that he had tested positive soon afterwards and, on Tuesday, Djokovic confirmed that he too, and his wife, Jelena, had done the same thing. Troicki’s pregnant wife, fitness coach Djokovic and coach Dimitrov were also positive. Then on Friday, Djokovic’s co-coach, Wimbledon winner Goran Ivanisevic, revealed he also tested positive.

Mrs. Djokovic, Dijana to the Serbian newspaper Blic that despite world No. 1 positive, that “does not mean he is sick.”

“He is a young man and can bear it more easily,” he said. ‘I also think the virus is nearing its end so this is like the second wave of Corona, which is not as strong as it was at the beginning. “

“It’s terrible, too terrible, what they write (international media), but we’re used to it. It seems like they can’t wait (bad news) to happen. Obviously they have something against Novak.”

READ: The tennis event organized by Djokovic was attacked

Punishment

The criticism was swift, with Australian Nick Kyrgios calling it a “stupid decision” to continue the event. Briton Andy Murray said that after seeing some photos of the post-event party in Belgrade and children’s day, “it is not surprising how many people tested positive.”

Djokovic, who went from Zadar to Belgrade before being tested, said he was “very sorry our tournament had caused damage.” Stressing that everything had been done in good faith, he said he believed the tournament met all the protocols but that “we were wrong and that was too fast.”

The blame game quickly flowed, with Djokovic Srdjan’s father pointing a finger at Dimitrov.

“Why did this happen? That’s because the man (Dimitrov) might have gotten sick from who knows where and then it all happened. Apparently he wasn’t testing here but somewhere else and I didn’t think that was true,” Father’s world No. 1 tells Croatian RTL.

“He caused great damage to you in Croatia, to us as a family and to us as Serbs,” Djokovic’s father added, continuing to point his finger at Dimitrov.

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Dimitrov’s agent did not immediately respond to CNN Sport’s request to comment, but he was widely quoted as saying to other media that “Grigor landed directly in Belgrade after three months of complete isolation. Both in Belgrade (first stop) and later in Zadar was he offered or asked to testing the corona virus. “

Serbian tennis player Novak Djokovic (left) talks with his wife Jelena during a match at the Adria Tour, the Balkan charity tournament Novak Djokovic in Belgrade on June 14, 2020.

Impact of a reputation collapse?

This is not the only Djokovic dispute with controversy during the pandemic.

Shortly before the start of Adria Tour, Djokovic, who is also the president of the men’s ATP Tour player board, angered some players by suggesting he might not take part in the US Open in New York at the end of August because organizers said they wanted to limit the group of players to one additional person. .

In April, he raised his eyebrows because he said he opposed the idea of ​​being vaccinated for Covid-19 as a possible precondition for playing on the Tour again. And in May, he suggested during Instagram Live Contaminated water can be cleaned positively.

“He has always been an unconventional thinker,” Crow said. “It’s part of her makeup.”

But Crow, who has worked with some of the biggest companies in the world, did not consider the collapse of Adria Tour to have damaged Djokovic’s private brand.

“It’s not ideal but I think it’s just a blip,” Crow said. “He did it with the best of intentions and he realized that he had messed it up. And everyone messed up, once in a while.”

Djokovic’s representative did not respond to CNN’s request to comment at the time of publication.

Djokovic made $ 33 million last year from a company deal with seven sponsors, including racquet maker Head and French carmaker Peugeot, according Forbes.

If it wasn’t for the virus, he might have been on his way to tie or even surpass Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer as the most successful male players of all time.

When the sport closed in March, Djokovic had won five of the last seven majors, making his total count to 17. That’s just two shy of Nadal and three of Federer, who was absent all season with a knee injury.

But instead of pursuing his sixth Wimbledon title in the next two weeks, Djokovic will spend most of that by isolating himself with his family.

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All Your Acrylic Nail Questions Answered: From Application to Care

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Acrylic nails are a popular choice for those looking to add length, strength, and style to their natural nails. Whether you’re new to the world of acrylics or a seasoned nail enthusiast, there are always questions that arise about the application, maintenance, and overall care of these enhancements. This guide will answer all your acrylic nail questions to ensure your next manicure is a complete success.

What Are Acrylic Nails?

Acrylic nails are artificial nail enhancements made from a mixture of liquid monomer and powder polymer. When combined, they form a hard protective layer that can be molded into various shapes and lengths. Once hardened, they provide a durable and long-lasting canvas for nail polish, art, or simply a natural look. For more in-depth information, check out Acrylic Nail FAQs to get all the details you need before your next salon visit.  

How Are Acrylic Nails Applied?

The application process of acrylic nails begins with the preparation of your natural nails. The nail technician will clean your nails, file them down, and apply a bonding agent to help the acrylic adhere. The acrylic mixture is then applied in thin layers, sculpted to the desired shape, and allowed to dry. Once set, the nails are filed, shaped, and buffed to a smooth finish.

Acrylic nails can be customized in terms of length and shape, making them a versatile choice for anyone looking to enhance their look.

How Long Do Acrylic Nails Last?

Typically, acrylic nails can last anywhere from two to three weeks before requiring a fill. During a fill, the nail technician will replace any grown-out acrylic and maintain the structure of the nails. With proper care, acrylic nails can be worn for extended periods, but it’s essential to give your natural nails a break occasionally to maintain nail health.

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How Do You Care for Acrylic Nails?

Caring for acrylic nails is crucial to ensuring they last as long as possible and that your natural nails remain healthy underneath. Here are some essential tips:

  1. Avoid excessive water exposure: Prolonged exposure to water can weaken acrylic nails, making them prone to lifting or damage. When washing dishes or cleaning, consider wearing gloves to protect your nails.
  2. Moisturize cuticles regularly: The acrylic application process can sometimes dry out your cuticles. Regularly apply cuticle oil to keep your cuticles hydrated and prevent hangnails.
  3. Be gentle with your nails: Acrylics can be strong, but they’re not indestructible. Avoid using your nails as tools to open packages or scrape things, as this can lead to breakage.
  4. Schedule regular fills: As your natural nails grow, gaps will appear between the acrylic and your cuticles. Regular fills ensure your nails maintain a smooth, polished look and help prevent lifting.

How Do You Remove Acrylic Nails Safely?

Proper removal is crucial to avoid damaging your natural nails. It’s highly recommended to have acrylics removed by a professional at the salon. However, if you prefer to remove them at home, follow these steps:

  1. Soak in acetone: Start by soaking a cotton ball in acetone, then place it on each nail. Wrap your fingers in aluminum foil and allow the acetone to work for about 20 minutes.
  2. Gently scrape off the acrylic: After soaking, use a cuticle pusher or an orange stick to gently scrape off the softened acrylic. Be patient and avoid forcing the acrylic off, as this can damage your natural nails.
  3. Buff and moisturize: Once the acrylic is completely removed, buff your natural nails to smooth out any rough spots and apply cuticle oil to restore moisture.
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Are Acrylic Nails Safe for Your Natural Nails?

When applied and removed properly, acrylic nails should not cause significant damage to your natural nails. However, improper removal or overuse without giving your nails time to breathe can lead to thinning, weakening, or breakage of your natural nails.

If you plan on wearing acrylic nails long-term, it’s a good idea to take breaks between applications and ensure you’re nourishing your nails with oils and treatments.

What Are the Best Acrylic Nail Shapes?

Choosing the right nail shape is essential for creating a look that complements your hands. Some of the most popular acrylic nail shapes include:

– Square: A straight-edged, classic look perfect for shorter nails.

– Oval: A soft, rounded shape that elongates the fingers.

– Coffin: Also known as ballerina shape, this trendy look features a tapered edge with a flat tip.

– Stiletto: A dramatic, pointy shape ideal for those who want a bold statement.

Each shape offers a unique aesthetic and can be tailored to suit your personal style.

Are There Any Alternatives to Acrylic Nails?

If you’re looking for a different type of nail enhancement, consider these alternatives:

– Gel nails: Gel nails offer a glossy finish and are cured under UV or LED light. They’re less rigid than acrylics and can feel more natural.

– Dip powder: This method involves dipping the nails into a colored powder and sealing them with a clear coat. It provides a similar look to acrylics but is generally less damaging to the natural nails.

Conclusion

Acrylic nails are a versatile and durable option for achieving customized, beautiful nails. By understanding the application process, knowing how to care for them, and safely removing them, you can enjoy long-lasting manicures that enhance your style. With the ability to choose from a variety of shapes and designs, acrylic nails offer endless possibilities for self-expression. Remember to take care of your natural nails in between applications to keep them healthy and strong. Whether you’re a first-time user or a seasoned pro, acrylic nails can be a fantastic way to express your personality and keep your nails looking flawless for weeks.

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Jacqueline Troost Omvlee – A Tool in the Hands of the Russian Elite

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When sanctions were imposed on Russia for its war against Ukraine, their objectives were twofold: to reduce Russian military capacity by limiting modern weapons and to lower Russian revenue streams. While in the beginning, the sanctions indeed weakened the Russian economy, they have fallen short of their initial objectives – mostly because Russia has found ways to circumvent many of them. The Kremlin has exploited international corruption, relied on foreign third parties, and utilized loopholes in trade restrictions. One such individual who allegedly provides services to Russian-linked companies is Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, a Geneva-based Dutch citizen.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is married to Niels Troost, an oil trader sanctioned by the United Kingdom. He and his company, Paramount Energy & Commodities SA, are among the 50 individuals and organizations blacklisted in response to the business connections with Russia. His wife, Jacqueline, helps to facilitate financial transactions for Niles Troost and Russian oligarchs including Gennady Timchenko, a Russian billionaire oil trader and Putin`s close associate.

Gennady Timchenko and his family have been sanctioned in many countries for backing the Kremlin’s war machine. However, with the help of Jacqueline Troost Omvlee, he seems to find ways to evade sanctions and continue his financial operations. In these illegal schemes, individuals like Jacqueline often serve as a front person for sanctioned oligarchs and their business assets. Russian-linked companies set up subsidiaries around the world, often registering new entities in offshore havens or countries where regulations are relatively lax or non-existent. To obfuscate the arrangements, the daughter companies spawn offspring in the form of subsidiaries, as the chain of concealment stretches on and on. The result is like a giant Matryoshka doll.

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Jacqueline’s involvement in financial transactions that potentially support Timchenko’s interests raises significant concerns about the efficacy of Western sanctions. The fact that Jacqueline Troost Omvlee continues to operate without facing sanctions herself highlights a significant loophole in the enforcement mechanism. Various shady schemes and tactics designed to circumvent sanctions often hide the activity of individuals such as Jacqueline, making it difficult for authorities to detect and punish them for their involvement.

Jacqueline Troost Omvlee’s role in her husband’s financial dealings as well as her alleged ties to Russian business schemes, emphasizes the need for stronger international sanctions. Her actions not only aid in sanctions evasion but also diminish the overall effectiveness of the measures designed to isolate and pressure those supporting the Russian regime. Therefore, sanctioning Jacqueline Troost Omvlee is not only a matter of addressing her individual actions but also a necessary step to reinforce the credibility and effectiveness of the sanctions regime. By targeting individuals who play a key role in evading sanctions, authorities can send a strong message that efforts to undermine international sanctions will not go unpunished. This measure is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the sanctions system and ensuring that it achieves its intended goal of isolating and restraining those who support destabilizing activities.

European countries and the US need to expand their sanctions-tracking and investigative actions to improve the monitoring of sanctions compliance and to introduce new measures against systematic violators of law. The sanctioning states have the resources and capacity for this, and need to take action now.

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Hermann’s Tortoise Lifespan: How to Ensure a Long, Healthy Life

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Ensuring a long and healthy life for your Hermann’s Tortoise requires a combination of proper care, nutrition, and habitat management. Hermann’s Tortoises, known for their charming personalities and distinctive shells, can live for several decades with the right conditions. Understanding their needs and providing a suitable environment is key to helping them thrive. Here’s how you can support your Hermann’s Tortoise in living a long, happy life.

Creating an Optimal Habitat

One of the most critical factors in promoting the longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise is the creation of a suitable habitat. Providing an environment that mimics their natural surroundings is essential for their overall health. An appropriate habitat helps prevent stress and supports their well-being. For detailed guidance on setting up an ideal habitat, including specific requirements for outdoor enclosures, visit this comprehensive guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise.

  1. Outdoor Enclosure: Hermann’s Tortoises thrive in outdoor enclosures that provide ample space to roam, bask, and forage. An outdoor setup should include a secure, predator-proof area with access to natural sunlight. Incorporate areas for basking and shade to allow the tortoise to regulate its body temperature. Additionally, include plants, rocks, and hiding spots to simulate their natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors.
  2. Indoor Habitat: If an outdoor enclosure is not feasible, an indoor habitat can also support a long lifespan if set up correctly. Use a large, well-ventilated enclosure with appropriate heating and UVB lighting. Provide a substrate that allows for burrowing and offer various hiding spots and enrichment items.

Diet and Nutrition

A balanced diet is vital for maintaining the health and longevity of your Hermann’s Tortoise. They are primarily herbivores, and their diet should reflect their natural feeding habits.

  1. Leafy Greens: Offer a variety of leafy greens such as kale, collard greens, and dandelion greens. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals that support overall health.
  2. Vegetables and Fruits: Supplement their diet with other vegetables like carrots, squash, and bell peppers. Fruits should be given in moderation due to their high sugar content.
  3. Calcium and Supplements: Provide a calcium supplement to support shell and bone health. A cuttlebone or powdered calcium can be added to their food. Ensure that they also have access to fresh, clean water at all times.
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Regular Health Checks

Routine health checks are essential for early detection of potential health issues. Regular veterinary visits help ensure your tortoise remains in optimal condition and addresses any health concerns promptly.

  1. Observation: Monitor your tortoise’s behavior and physical condition regularly. Changes in appetite, weight, or activity level can indicate health problems.
  2. Preventative Care: Schedule annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in reptile care. Regular exams help catch any issues early and keep vaccinations and other preventative treatments up to date.

Environmental Enrichment

Providing environmental enrichment helps keep your Hermann’s Tortoise mentally stimulated and active. Enrichment can reduce stress and prevent boredom, contributing to a better quality of life.

  1. Foraging Opportunities: Hide food items around the enclosure to encourage natural foraging behavior. This not only provides mental stimulation but also mimics their natural hunting practices.
  2. Variety: Change the layout of their enclosure periodically and introduce new objects or plants to keep their environment interesting and engaging.

Conclusion

By focusing on creating the right habitat, providing a balanced diet, ensuring regular health checks, and offering environmental enrichment, you can significantly enhance the lifespan and well-being of your Hermann’s Tortoise. For further details on creating an ideal habitat, including tips for designing an outdoor enclosure, refer to this helpful guide on Habitat for Hermann’s Tortoise. Implementing these practices will help ensure that your tortoise enjoys a long, healthy life.

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