Andy Farrell signs new IRFU contract until 2031

Andy Farrell has signed a new deal to remain as Ireland’s head coach until 2031, removing any chance of England luring him back to Twickenham after next year’s Rugby World Cup. Instead, Farrell has opted to stay put in Dublin and will now preside over their next two World Cup campaigns. Farrell, who led the British & Irish Lions to a series win in Australia last year, has steered Ireland to two Six Nations titles, including a grand slam in 2023 and a historic Test series win over the All Blacks in New Zealand since replacing Joe Schmidt in late 2019.

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Liverpool appoint Andoni Iraola as new head coach

Liverpool have appointed Andoni Iraola as their head coach on a two-year contract following the sacking of Arne Slot. The Reds announced Slot’s exit on Saturday, a year after the Dutchman guided them to the Premier League title, and have moved swiftly to bring in a successor. Former Bournemouth manager Iraola, 43, joins after delivering the Cherries’ finest top-flight season to date, finishing in sixth place.

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McIlroy urges US Open not to let greens ‘get out of hand’

Rory McIlroy has warned the USGA to keep Shinnecock Hills’ green speeds in check if they’re to avoid the carnage that’s marred the last two US Opens there. Speaking ahead of the Memorial Tournament at Jack Nicklaus’ Muirfield Village, where he’s hoping to break his duck at the 14th attempt, the world No 2 wants no repeat of the 2018 US Open, when he crashed to an opening 80 and missed the cut.

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Marco Silva leaves Fulham amid links to Benfica

Fulham have announced that Marco Silva is leaving after five years as their head coach. The Portuguese is wanted by Benfica, who are poised to lose José Mourinho to Real Madrid. Silva departs having led Fulham to 11th in the Premier League for the second successive season, the fourth time the club have finished mid-table since winning promotion in Silva’s first campaign.

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Serena Williams confirms her comeback to tennis

Serena Williams, one of the greatest tennis players of all time, will make her return to competitive action after an absence of almost four years in the women’s doubles at Queen’s Club later this month. She has been granted a wildcard for the tournament which begins on 8 June and, will play alongside Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko.

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