The New York Times faced backlash after publishing an article scrutinizing NYC Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani's college application from 16 years ago, where he checked both "Asian" and "African-American" boxes. Critics slammed the piece as a hit job, and the Times later walked back its framing. The story reveals the messy ethics of political reporting—how outlets sometimes chase scoops with questionable sources or angles, even if it means amplifying bad-faith attacks.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about one article—it’s about how major news organizations navigate the tension between breaking stories and avoiding harmful narratives. When a paper like the Times stumbles like this, it fuels distrust in media at a time when accurate, ethical journalism matters more than ever. It also highlights how identity politics can be weaponized in reporting, often with real consequences for the people involved.

Tadej Pogacar notched his 100th professional win in style during Stage 4 of the 2025 Tour de France, calling it "pure racing" in a post-race interview. The victory wasn’t just about the milestone—it was classic Pogacar, showcasing his dominance and flair, especially with familiar rivals rounding out the podium. The win sends a clear message: he’s the one to beat this year.

Editor’s Note: Pogacar’s latest win isn’t just another notch on his belt—it’s a statement. In a sport where psychology and momentum matter as much as legs and lungs, starting strong in the Tour de France sets the tone for the grueling weeks ahead. For fans, it’s a thrilling preview of the battles to come; for his competitors, it’s a reminder of just how hard he’ll be to shake.

When Alexia Putellas is in top form, Spain's women's soccer team becomes nearly unstoppable. The article highlights their unmatched technical skill—no other national team can field so many players with such dazzling ball control. Watching them play is like witnessing a group of magicians effortlessly weaving through defenses with pinpoint precision.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about winning; it’s about artistry in motion. Spain’s dominance showcases how elite technical ability can redefine the game, making them a must-watch for soccer fans and a benchmark for aspiring players. It’s a celebration of skill, creativity, and the sheer joy of beautiful football.

The Washington Nationals are having a rough season, but the bigger issue is that they seem to lack any coherent strategy. While rebuilding teams can still be serious about improving, the Nationals' decisions—like starting a 27-year-old rookie pitcher with almost no experience—suggest they're just throwing things at the wall and hoping something sticks. It’s not just that they’re bad; it’s that they’re not even trying to get better in a logical way.

Editor’s Note: For baseball fans, this isn’t just another "team loses a lot" story. It’s about a franchise that feels directionless, which is frustrating for supporters who want to see a clear plan for the future. When a team isn’t even pretending to try, it raises bigger questions about ownership and management—and whether things will ever turn around.

Aryna Sabalenka, the world's top-ranked women's tennis player, struggled through a messy three-set win at Wimbledon against 37-year-old Laura Siegemund, whose slow, unpredictable game gave Sabalenka fits. The match highlighted how veteran players with unconventional styles can disrupt even elite opponents—prompting a tongue-in-cheek suggestion that Sabalenka might benefit from practicing with older players to round out her game.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about one scrappy match—it’s a reminder that tennis isn’t purely about power or youth. Crafty veterans like Siegemund can exploit gaps in even the best players' games, and adapting to those challenges is key to staying on top. Plus, it’s a fun nod to the sport’s tactical diversity, where experience sometimes trumps raw athleticism.

This looks like a playful, conversational column from Defector's "Funbag" series, where readers submit quirky questions and topics—everything from flying phobias to futuristic robot limbs. The editor, Drew Magary, mixes humor with personal anecdotes, and hey, he even sneakily plugs his book.

Editor’s Note: It’s not hard news, but these kinds of columns matter because they turn everyday curiosities into relatable, entertaining reads. They’re the digital equivalent of chatting with a witty friend who somehow makes even mundane stuff interesting. Plus, it’s a reminder that media can be fun without taking itself too seriously.

This piece dives into the legacy of Dave Parker, a towering figure from baseball’s era of larger-than-life sluggers. At 6'5" and 245 pounds, Parker embodied the raw power and swagger of old-school hitters—think bruising, no-nonsense athletes who could change a game with one swing. The excerpt hints at nostalgia for a time when players like him dominated with sheer physicality.

Editor’s Note: Parker’s story isn’t just about stats; it’s a love letter to baseball’s grittier, more charismatic past. For fans who miss the days of unapologetic power hitters, this taps into that nostalgia—and maybe sparks a debate about how the game’s changed. Plus, it’s a reminder why legends like Parker still resonate.

Grigor Dimitrov was on the verge of a career-defining win at Wimbledon, leading world No. 1 Jannik Sinner by two sets—a rare feat against the dominant Italian. But in a cruel twist, his body gave out, forcing him to retire due to injury. The heartbreaking exit wasn’t just about the physical pain; it was the timing, robbing him of a shot at glory after years of perseverance.

Editor’s Note: Sports can be brutally unfair—Dimitrov’s story is a gut punch for anyone who’s watched an athlete’s moment slip away in an instant. It’s a reminder of how fragile success can be, even for seasoned pros. For tennis fans, it’s also a testament to Sinner’s resilience, but the real sting is Dimitrov’s missed chance to rewrite his legacy.

This tongue-in-cheek article laments that while Americans celebrate Independence Day, they're missing out on the brilliance of Taskmaster, the UK comedy show that just wrapped its latest season. The piece contrasts the grim reality of Fourth of July festivities with the pure, absurd joy of watching comedians tackle ridiculous challenges on the British series—implying the U.S. may have won its freedom but lost the cultural knack for such delightfully silly entertainment.

Editor’s Note: It’s a lighthearted but pointed critique of American cultural output, using Taskmaster as a benchmark for clever, low-stakes comedy that feels increasingly rare stateside. For fans of sharp humor, it’s a reminder that some of the best TV isn’t made here—and that’s worth groaning about between fireworks.