Factual
Australian Open, Wimbledon could see rescheduling
MELBOURNE: The first tennis Grand Slam tournament of the year The Australian Open is played in incredible heat in January. Dehydration and cramps are common. So it comes as no surprise that players have asked the tournament organisers for a different date.
In India the tournament airs on ESPN Star Sports. There is also another complaint from players about burnout. This is because they continously play tournaments throughout the year without adequate breaks. The risk of picking up career shortening injuries increases.
However this would mean that the Association of tennis Players (ATP) and Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) would have to reschedule their tournaments if the Australian Open is to be played in March when the weather is more conducive. An AP report indicates that discussions are going on between the ATP, WTA and Tennis Australia.
Meanwhile former player Martina Navratilova has argued that the organisers should take the initiative and not wait for serious injuries to mount before being forced into action. Grand Slam winner Marat Safin who has been out of action for quite a while has come out in support of the proposed move.
If an overhaul of the scheduling takes place The Australian Open is not the only Grand Slam that could be affected. One of the reasons why Bjorn Borg was the last player to win the French Open and Wimbledon in the same year is the fact that there is barely a two week gap between the two of them. There is not enough time for clay courters to switch to grass. Therefore there exists the chance that Wimbeldon too could be pushed back.
Factual
National Geographic launches ‘Postcards from Hong Kong’ with Ridhi Dogra
New series explores the city’s hidden gems and vibrant contrasts, premiering 28 March.
MUMBAI: Ridhi Dogra just sent a postcard from Hong Kong that’s worth framing because when a bustling metropolis reveals its quiet trails and timeless traditions, even the skyline takes a back seat. National Geographic has unveiled Postcards from Hong Kong, a refreshing travel series hosted and curated by actor Ridhi Dogra. Produced by National Geographic Creative Works in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the show offers an intimate, Indian traveller’s perspective on one of Asia’s most iconic cities, moving beyond its glittering harbour and skyscrapers to uncover serene beaches, scenic hiking trails and deep cultural traditions.
Across three visually rich episodes, Ridhi journeys through contrasting sides of Hong Kong. The first episode takes her on a quieter path of self-discovery to places like Sai Kung, Big Wave Bay, Dragon’s Back, Tai O, Ngong Ping, Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha. The second episode dives into the city’s energetic side, from the bustling streets of Causeway Bay to Happy Valley Racecourse, Michelin-starred spots and luxury shopping at Landmark.
Ridhi Dogra said, “Being part of Postcards from Hong Kong with Nat Geo was a deeply enriching experience. What I love about this journey is that it goes beyond the obvious; it’s not just about the skyline or the speed of the city but about the stories that live in its quieter corners.”
A National Geographic India spokesperson added, “With Postcards from Hong Kong, we set out to go beyond the familiar and explore the city through a more intimate, human lens.”
Hong Kong Tourism Board director of South Asia Puneet Kumar noted, “Postcards from Hong Kong is a reflection of meaningful storytelling that brings the city to life in an immersive way. It beautifully captures the diversity and spirit that define Hong Kong.”
Blending travel, culture and personal storytelling, the series celebrates Hong Kong as a city of contrasts where modern life meets tradition and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. It premieres on 28 March at 8 pm on the National Geographic Channel and will also stream on JioHotstar.
In a world of hurried travel reels, Postcards from Hong Kong slows things down just enough to let viewers truly see the city not just its lights, but its layers, proving that the best souvenirs are the stories you bring home.
