I have been criticised for being part of the Riyadh comedy festival. This is why I did it | Omid Djalili

Cristiano Ronaldo has made history by becoming the first billionaire in football, a milestone that highlights his immense success both on and off the pitch. His wealth surged after signing a lucrative $400 million deal in Saudi Arabia, showcasing the growing financial power of football and the opportunities it presents for players. This achievement not only cements Ronaldo's legacy as one of the greatest athletes but also reflects the changing landscape of sports economics.

The AFC World Cup qualifier match between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia is generating excitement as fans eagerly await the live commentary and team news updates. This match is crucial for both teams as they vie for a spot in the 2026 World Cup, making it a significant event in the football calendar.

Michael Heseltine has taken a strong stance against Kemi Badenoch's recent policies during the Tory conference, criticizing her approach to human rights, asylum seekers, and climate change. His remarks, which also labeled Nigel Farage as a 'phoney', highlight a significant rift within the party and raise questions about the direction of Conservative policies. This matters because it reflects ongoing tensions in UK politics and could influence public perception and party unity.

Indonesia is set to face Saudi Arabia in an important AFC World Cup qualifier for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is being cohosted by Saudi Arabia and Qatar. This match is significant as it represents a crucial step for both teams in their quest to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.

In the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, questions are being raised about the advantages given to Qatar and Saudi Arabia, who will host matches and enjoy more rest than their rivals. Oman coach Carlos Queiroz is among those voicing concerns over the AFC's decisions. As six Asian nations compete for two coveted World Cup spots, the dynamics of home advantage could significantly impact the outcomes, making this a crucial moment in the qualification process.

Eswatini has confirmed the arrival of ten more individuals deported by the US, marking the second group of third-country nationals sent to the kingdom under a controversial deal. This situation has raised significant concerns among NGOs and legal advocates, who argue that such deportations violate human rights. The implications of this deal are profound, as it highlights ongoing debates about immigration policies and the treatment of vulnerable populations.

Workers at Amazon warehouses in Saudi Arabia are expressing their frustration over unpaid financial redress promised by the company. These Asian migrant laborers, who incurred hefty recruiting fees, claim that Amazon has not fulfilled its commitment to compensate them for financial abuses they suffered. This situation highlights ongoing issues of labor rights and corporate accountability, raising important questions about the treatment of workers in global supply chains.

A parliamentary committee in Australia has raised serious concerns about the fast-tracking of deportations to Nauru, stating that the new regime may breach international human rights obligations. This finding is significant as it highlights the potential risks to vulnerable individuals and calls into question the government's approach to immigration and human rights. The committee's warning serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to international standards, especially in matters involving human dignity and safety.

Louis CK has recently defended his choice to perform at the Riyadh comedy festival, describing it as a 'good opportunity' despite acknowledging the mixed feelings surrounding the event due to Saudi Arabia's human rights record. While some fellow comedians have criticized the festival for potentially whitewashing the country's regime, CK believes that participating in such events can lead to positive outcomes. This situation highlights the ongoing debate about the role of artists in politically sensitive environments and raises questions about the balance between artistic expression and ethical considerations.

Tonight, Manchester United faces Vålerenga in the Women’s Champions League, kicking off at 8pm BST at Leigh Sports Village. This match marks an exciting start to the tournament, showcasing the growing prominence of women's football. Fans are eager to see if United can secure a strong opening performance, setting the tone for their campaign. The revamped Women's Champions League promises thrilling matches and heightened competition, making this event significant for both teams and supporters alike.

Authorities have charged 29-year-old Jonathan Rinderknecht with starting a devastating wildfire that ravaged the Pacific Palisades neighborhood in Los Angeles. This incident is significant as it highlights the ongoing challenges of wildfire management and the impact of human actions on natural disasters, raising concerns about safety and environmental protection.

In Australia, the Palestine Action Group is facing police opposition to their planned protest at the iconic Opera House this Sunday. This situation highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the Palestine issue and the right to protest in public spaces. As the judges prepare to rule on the legality of the protest, it raises important questions about freedom of expression and the role of law enforcement in political demonstrations.

The Canadian government has decided to scrap a controversial plan that would have allowed police to access online data without a warrant. Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree introduced a revised version of the legislation in the House of Commons, reflecting growing concerns about privacy and civil liberties. This decision is significant as it highlights the ongoing debate over the balance between security measures and individual rights in the digital age.

House Democrats are intensifying their pressure on Republican leader Mike Johnson to swear in an Arizona congresswoman whose vote could lead to the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the two parties, as Democrats accuse Republicans of delaying the swearing-in process to avoid a vote that could expose sensitive information. The implications of this standoff are significant, as it reflects broader issues of transparency and accountability in government, especially concerning high-profile cases like Epstein's.

Brazil is experiencing a significant boost in beef exports to China, with shipments increasing by 38% as demand shifts due to Trump's tariffs affecting the US market. This surge is crucial for Brazil's economy, as it compensates for a 41% drop in exports to the US, highlighting the dynamic nature of global trade and the importance of adapting to changing market conditions.