National Sports

John Tavares signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs on Sunday, ending the saga of one of the most highly sought after free agents in NHL history.

TORONTO — Fred VanVleet has always bet on himself. Because for awhile, it seemed like nobody else would. But VanVleet earned the Raptors' undying support as the hard-working motor that powered Toronto's league-leading second unit last season.

MOSCOW — Russia shockingly eliminated Spain from the World Cup, surviving two hours of dominance by the 2010 champions in a 1-1 draw and then winning a penalty shootout 4-3.

LONDON — Serena Williams says she got choked up when she brought her baby daughter to Centre Court. She appreciates the All England Club's decision to seed her as she prepares to return to action at Wimbledon on Monday for the first time as a mother.

LONDON — Two-time champion Andy Murray pulled out of Wimbledon on Sunday because of a bad hip that has been a problem for about a year and was surgically repaired less than six months ago.

LONDON — Former Wimbledon champion Pat Cash picks Canadian teenager Denis Shapovalov as one to watch at this year's tournament.

Barring a miracle, Germany and Hong Kong will join Canada in the four-team repechage in November for a place in the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Germany, ranked 29th in the world, was thumped 66-15 by No.

PARIS — Le Monde newspaper says Tour de France organizers have forbidden four-time champion Chris Froome from taking part in this year's race.

TORONTO — From the flashy full-motion video signage outside the building to the small logos on napkins at the concession stands inside, the arena formerly known as Air Canada Centre is ready for its makeover.

REGINA — Another starting CFL quarterback has gone down with an injury. Montreal pivot Drew Willy was removed from Saturday night's game against the host Saskatchewan Roughriders and didn't return after being injured on a sack.