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After beating Alex de Minaur in the fourth round with a 1-6, 6-4, 6-4, and 6-4 victory, Novak Djokovic now punches his ticket to the Wimbledon quarterfinals as he also paid homage to one of his former rivals and eight-time Wimbledon champion, Roger Federer – who was present in the game and watched one of his former rivals dominate the court. Djokovic joked about how Federer’s presence in the games he’s played in the past often led him to lose. This time, however, it was a much more different story as he ended up winning and continuing the fight to the next round, where he will have a chance to go two wins away from his first Major title in a long while. It was not an easy encounter for the Serbian star. He had to endure a 1-6 loss in the first round, which was not ideal for a player who was seeded high at this point. Still, Djokovic managed to come up with a massive finish when it mattered most – winning the final three sets to close the match out with a bang. Historic Run to the Top Djokovic also notched his 101st win in the singles with that strong finish against de Minaur, and now heads to his 16th overall quarterfinal in the same grass-court Grand Slam. On top of all that, he is also close to tying Federer’s record of 105 wins in this stage as well. In fact, he even went on to dedicate this winning finish to the former Swiss star. "It's probably the first time he’s watching me and I’ve won the match," Djokovic said in his on-court interview. "In the last couple, I lost the match, so it’s good to break the curse. It’s great to have Roger here, a huge champion and someone I admired and respected a lot. We’ve shared the stage for so many years and it’s great to have him back in his most successful and favourite tournament, no doubt." We all know how really great Djokovic can be when he plays at the top of his game, and that says a lot about what we can expect from the star as he enters the deeper stages of Wimbledon. So far, he can expect to battle two of Ben Shelton, Carlos Alcaraz, Taylor Fritz, Karen Khachanov, Cam Norrie, and Jannik Sinner in the succeeding rounds of the tournament. A Difficult Encounter Despite breezing through the round after losing one set, Djokovic knew that this was a hard encounter to begin with, and it cannot be denied that there are a lot of expectations for him to finish up a strong game at this stage. "It was a very difficult encounter, some very challenging moments for me," Djokovic said, before referencing Federer in the stands. "Sometimes, I wish I had a serve and volley and a nice touch from the gentleman who is standing right there. That would help.” This time, Djokovic is slated to take on 22nd seed Flavio Cobolli heading into the quarterfinal stage, and it means that this is a solid chance for the Serbian star to keep his eyes on the prize and make a daring run heading into the final of one of the fabled majors in the game now more than ever. Who knows? Maybe even a shot at moving up to the higher ranks.

Despite having one of the most promising runs in the CONCACAF Gold Cup this season, the USMNT fell short in its hopes of a majestic finish on the biggest stage as they dropped the final of the tournament to Mexico, 2-1. There wasn’t any magic this time, and it proved to be quite a stunning ending to one of the game’s most enjoyable moments. This young squad of talented players is all battling to represent the United States at the highest level, and there’s no denying that it was a massive run that they have managed before losing out in the final. So far, there’s still more to expect from USMNT as they strive to put up more aggressiveness in their games, but Mauricio Pochettino’s squad deserves a lot of praise for their success in this game. Looking ahead, this Gold Cup served not only as a challenge but a wake-up call. The US now heads into September friendlies and, eventually, the World Cup year energized by lessons learned in both personnel and strategic play. The question is whether Mexico’s victory will fuel the US to tighten up mentally and tactically in 2026. Not Much of a Big Loss Ultimately, this wasn’t just a loss. It was a vital growth experience. The sting of runner-up may stick now, but the foundation it built through hard lessons and emerging talent could define this group at the 2026 World Cup. First, credit where it’s due. Chris Richards gave Pochettino’s team a dream start, heading in a Sebastian Berhalter set-piece in the 4th minute, right in front of a roaring crowd at the NRG Stadium. On paper, it was a textbook beginning to what could have been a US triumph. But Mexico’s response was fierce. Raúl Jiménez equalized in the 27th minute after capitalizing on defensive lapses from Tim Ream and Alex Freeman. From there, El Tri controlled the tempo, posting 60 percent possession and outshooting the US 16 to 6, including 12 corners to none for the Americans. The match’s turning point came deep in the second half. A handball by Jorge Sánchez in the US box went uncalled, and VAR also allowed Edson Álvarez’s header to stand after an initial offside flag in the 77th minute, giving Mexico the lead they would not relinquish. Pochettino was candid in his frustration: calling the officiating “embarrassing” and saying, “if that happened in the opposite box, for sure it’s a penalty”. This defeat stings, especially given the context – but it’s far from pointless. In the days since, both Pochettino and analysts have highlighted positives: resilience, tactical cohesion, and the emergence of new contributors like Sebastian Berhalter and goalkeeper Matt Freese. New Faces for the USMNT Sebastian Berhalter, in particular, has stepped into the spotlight. His free‑kick delivery led to the opening goal, and his overall midfield performance, especially on set pieces, suggests he could be a pivotal piece heading into the 2026 World Cup. Of equal significance: this tournament has injected fierce internal competition into the player pool. Chris Richards and Tim Ream have solidified the center-back spots, while young standouts like Alex Freeman, Max Arfsten, Diego Luna, Malik Tillman, Luca de la Torre, and Freese are now firmly in the mix. Pochettino’s message is clear: no roster spot is handed out. It’s all about who embraces this culture of competitiveness and commitment – a shift from relying on household names like Christian Pulisic, Weston McKennie, and Gio Reyna, many of whom skipped the summer tournament.

A representative from the state of Nevada, Rep. Dina Titus, has proposed new legislation following an overlooked provision on the recently-signed One Big Beautiful Bill. The proposed legislation seeks to allow bettors to write off a hundred percent of their losses in gambling. Nevada Congresswoman Dina Titus has recently introduced new legislation to reverse a controversial provision buried in former President Donald Trump's latest budget bill - one that significantly impacts professional gamblers and high-stakes bettors. The budget bill, dubbed the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act,' was signed into law on the 4th of July, but not without criticism, especially from Titus and the gambling community. The Democrat from Las Vegas introduced the FAIR BET Act last Monday, which aims to reinstate the full 100% federal tax deduction for gambling losses. Under the new law, bettors can only deduct 90% of their losses, even while being required to report 100% of their winnings - effectively taxing profit that doesn't exist. High stakes, higher taxes The gambling provision was inserted into the bill by the Senate after the House passed the original budget with minor changes. The intention was to save federal dollars, especially as the bill is expected to balloon the national deficit by over $4 trillion across the next decade. The change, however, directly affects players at all levels - particularly professional gamblers and high-volume bettors. According to Jeff Edelstein of InGame.com, the math is alarming: If you win $100,000 and lose $100,000, you can only deduct $90,000. That leaves you taxed as if you made $10,000 - even though your net gain is zero, he wrote. At a 24% federal tax rate, that results in a $2,400 tax bill on imaginary profit. Titus, whose district includes parts of Las Vegas, was swift in her response. "No one should have to pay taxes on money they didn't win," she posted on X. She is co-sponsoring the FAIR BET Act with Rep. Rohit Khanna. Poker pros and the industry sound the alarm Professional poker player Phil Galfond voiced his strong opposition to the provision, illustrating its severe financial consequences on full-time players. Let's say you win $5.2 million but lose $5 million, he explained. You really made $200,000. But under this law, you're taxed as if you made $700,000, he added. He also warned that such a scenario would make professional gambling in the US financially untenable. Galfond emphasized that this could devastate poker rooms and betting markets that rely on professional participation to create liquidity and competitiveness. "You take them out, and the ecosystem collapses," he said. Jeff Edelstein echoed this concern, noting that high-volume players - often called 'sharps' - are essential for setting accurate sportsbook lines and maintaining healthy daily fantasy contest pools. "These aren't whales throwing around money. They're skilled, data-driven professionals," he wrote. A push toward offshore gambling? Titus also expressed concern that the new tax rules would drive players toward offshore betting platforms, which are not subject to US regulation or taxation. "Players will go gamble with offshore operators," Galfond warned, "and the US will not see those tax dollars." Offshore sites typically do not enforce responsible gaming measures or provide consumer protections such as anti-money laundering compliance. Titus highlighted this in an interview, stating, "The black market doesn't pay taxes, isn't regulated, and doesn't help with problem gaming. It's bad for the industry as well as the player." Industry support for FAIR BET Act The American Gaming Association issued a statement backing Titus' proposed fix, saying, "We are committed to working with Congresswoman Titus, other congressional leaders, and the Trump administration to restore the long-standing tax treatment of gaming losses." With more than two dozen states now offering legalized sports betting, lawmakers like Titus are advocating not only for fair tax policy but also to protect a growing, regulated industry. "I encourage other members to support this critical fix," she said on social media.

Tipico is facing a substantial fine of $25,000 even after it has left the state of New Jersey. The NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement issued the fine for the alleged violation of the rules of self-exclusion - and for allowing a customer to cash out bets at significantly exaggerated odds. An operator is penalized for violating self-exclusion rules and cashing out inflated odds - despite exiting the state more than a year ago. The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement has imposed a $25,000 civil fine on gaming operator Tipico for multiple regulatory violations that occurred while the company was still operating in the United States. The fine comes even though the sportsbook operator has since exited the US market, having sold its American operations to MGM Resorts International on the 24th of June, 2024. According to the DGE, Tipico breached state regulations in two significant ways: by sending promotional materials to self-excluded individuals and by allowing a customer to profit from wagers placed at improperly inflated odds. Self-excluded players received promotional emails Between the months of August 2021 and May 2022, Tipico sent 973 promotional emails to a total of 162 patrons in New Jersey who had opted into the state's self-exclusion program, which is designed to protect problem gamblers. The emails were sent through a third-party vendor, but the failure, according to the DGE, stemmed from Tipico’s internal marketing team not properly configuring filters in the system. The problem is that the error went unnoticed for several months. Tipico only discovered the issue later on, in March 2022, after the resignation of its former Head of US Compliance, and did not report it to the DGE until May of that year. "In August 2021, when Tipico's marketing team was configuring the third-party system to send and filter emails, it failed to notice that the filters were not operating properly," wrote Mary Jo Flaherty, Interim Director, in the official ruling. To prevent future occurrences, Tipico reportedly created an internal reporting system to identify self-excluded players before sending any promotional communications. Payouts at erroneous odds lead to further violations Another major incident cited by the DGE occurred in January of 2024. A Tipico customer placed 41 parlay bets with a combined stake amounting to $28,029.26. Due to a system error involving Tipico's parlay odds provider, the customer was offered and accepted inflated cash-out values, resulting in a total payout of $39,593.26. Tipico attempted to halt the withdrawals and consulted with the DGE for guidance, seeking to void the wagers. However, in New Jersey, operators are generally not permitted to void bets that were accepted with erroneous odds. The customer filed a complaint, which concluded that Tipico was responsible for honoring the bets. Following the incident, both Tipico and its odds provider implemented new technological safeguards to ensure that future cash-outs would not exceed appropriate odds. Regulators opt for civil fine over further action While acknowledging the seriousness of the violations, the Department of Gaming Enforcement accepted Tipico's offer to settle the matter with a $25,000 civil penalty as well as chose not to pursue additional disciplinary action. However, the division left the door open for further consequences should Tipico decide to re-enter the New Jersey market. The DGE accepted the offer of Tipico for a civil monetary penalty of $25,000 and no further regulatory action. However, should Tipico return to the state and incur any additional violations of the gaming statutes, no matter how minor, it will result in further disciplinary action, the agency stated. Though Tipico is no longer active in the US, the case demonstrates the ongoing regulatory scrutiny operators face and the importance of maintaining compliance - even after exiting a jurisdiction.

After a massive buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers, Deandre Ayton is now moving his sights to the California scene as he is slated to join the Los Angeles Lakers in their pursuit of a league title this season. With the center position being a huge concern for the 2020 champions, Ayton’s addition is expected to be a huge boon for their winning chances now more than ever. It can be remembered that the Lakers moved on from Anthony Davis when they pulled the trigger to make a blockbuster trade that sent the Los Angeles big man to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for Luka Doncic. This left the Lakers bare in the center position – with Jaxon Hayes, a power forward, filling in for the void left by Davis’ absence. That lack of positional depth in the center spot has led to the team’s first-round exit at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves. With Portland committing to its young core, Ayton’s exit comes as a timely move for both teams. Now the big man is going to play alongside LeBron James and Doncic as the main trio for the squad while also hoping to reposition themselves in the Western Conference for a massive finish once more. A Lakers Redemption The Lakers were heavily criticized for not being able to bring in a center by the trade deadline of the 2024-25 season. Sure, they ended up as the third seed in the rough Western Conference, but then they lost in five games to the Timberwolves – who fielded a double big lineup of Rudy Gobert and Julius Randle. It can be remembered that it was Gobert’s massive performance and dominance in the paint in that Game 5 loss for the Lakers that was led to the team’s strong need to find a massive big man who can prove to be a huge force in the paint. In the 2024-25 season, Ayton averaged 14.4 points and 10.2 rebounds in 56.6% shooting per game, which says a lot about his efficient impact on the Lakers, provided that he plays the same way. It all means that the former Blazers big should fit in well moving forward as Los Angeles now eyes to see a new hope to prove that they are still one of the biggest teams to watch in the league. Domin-Ayton in LA? Ayton is one of the top players who is still just entering his prime years. At the age of 26 – he is of the same Draft Class as his teammate Luka Doncic, who is another young prodigy who is even pegged to become the face of the league at this point in time. We all know how Ayton has been able to prove his worth over the years, especially in his 2021 Finals run. Considering the fact that he plays the same way as he did with the Blazers, the Lakers are getting a pivotal piece now more than ever. The former Phoenix Suns big man agreed to have his contract bought out by Portland, which means he will be paid more than $25 million by the Blazers while playing for the Lakers next year. Without Davis, the Lakers ran pretty much the second half of the 2024-25 season without a true big man who could grind his way in the paint and come up with impressive runs on the boards. That’s the same level of expectation that Ayton will find his way in moving forward.

Brent Burns isn't here to make up the numbers. At 40 and heading into an astounding 22nd NHL season, the veteran defenseman joins the Colorado Avalanche on a one-year deal to complete one mission: winning the Stanley Cup. The passion for hockey – the grind of training, the camaraderie with teammates, and the daily pulse of the rink – still fuels him. But the most compelling motivator? Burns believes that there’s still a lot for him to chase, and he is approaching this run with a lot of motivation in his mind. Burns has enjoyed a distinguished career: 1,497 regular-season games (playing in every possible contest for 11 seasons straight) and 910 points (261 goals, 649 assists). And yet, even all of those personal glories, one prize continues to elude him – the Stanley Cup. This is why signing with the Avalanche seems to be the best way for him to achieve all of that – and show that he can indeed prove himself to be an impressive performer who can dominate the big stage when it matters most. A Flawless Fit: Experience Meets Elite Talent Colorado’s blue line is already among the NHL’s best, anchored by stars like Cale Makar and Devon Toews. Burns adds a new dimension: leadership, durability, offensive touch, and that competitive itch. He knows his role might be more supporting than starring – but he embraces it. “Whatever they ask of me, that’s what I want to do,” he said, signaling willingness to take on any assignment – be it third-pair minutes, power-play shifts, or mentoring emerging players. With 925 consecutive games under his belt – the fourth–longest “Iron Man” streak in NHL. If he suits up for all 82 games this season, he’ll move to second all-time behind Phil Kessel. On and off the ice, he’s expected to elevate a team that won the Cup in 2022 but has largely stalled in recent postseasons. At this stage in his career, Burns isn’t chasing stats – he’s chasing legacy. Having reached the Stanley Cup Final once (2016 with the San Jose Sharks), he wants another shot – a real one – to bring home hockey’s ultimate prize. He explicitly compared his journey to legends like Ray Bourque, who famously won in Colorado after a long wait. Going All In With Nathan MacKinnon leading the forward corps, Gabriel Landeskog recovering, and Cale Makar patrolling the blue line, the Avalanche are positioned to contend – but last season’s early playoff exit underscores the competition’s intensity. Burns is clear-eyed: no illusions, no side missions. He’s locked on Colorado’s system, his self-care routine, and that one collective dream. “There’s one big goal still,” he repeated – an echo that carries the weight of decades of near misses. As the NHL landscape turns, Burns’s signing is both symbolic and strategic. It’s symbolic in that it signals the Avalanche’s ambition: they’re not just good – they’re hungry. He fits the ethos: work ethic, energy, and championship hunger. Strategically, he offers Colorado a fallback option in high-stakes moments: a mentor on the bench, a power-play option, a penalty killer, a body who doesn’t miss games. Whether this chapter brings the coveted Cup remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Brent Burns didn’t come to Colorado to coast – he came to chase. And if passion, perseverance, and a little bit of playoff magic align, this could be his crowning moment. Who knows? Maybe this is the year when the Colorado squad finally wins it all.

Finally, the much-anticipated opinion of the California Attorney General's office on the state of Daily Fantasy Sports has been released. AG Rob Bonta's office has declared fantasy sports as illegal, and says that it breaches the penal code primarily because it involves sports betting. But the governor of California, Gavin Newsom, opposes the decision. In a high-profile political and legal development, California Governor Gavin Newsom has expressed clear opposition to Attorney General Rob Bonta's recent legal opinion condemning paid fantasy sports in the state. The long-anticipated opinion, officially released on July 3, argues that daily fantasy sports contests - both pick'em and draft-style formats - violate California's laws prohibiting sports betting. While Bonta's office insists the opinion aligns with existing law under Penal Code section 337a, Governor Newsom has taken a markedly different stance, emphasizing that the opinion is not binding and calling for constructive engagement with stakeholders. Governor Newsom challenges AG's viewpoint Responding swiftly to the release, Newsom's spokesperson, Izzy Gardon, distanced the governor's office from the opinion. "The attorney general, in his independent capacity, issued this opinion - not the governor's office," Gardon said. "While the governor does not agree with the outcome, he welcomes a constructive path forward in collaboration with all stakeholders." The governor's remarks raise questions about whether the opinion will have immediate implications for the legality of fantasy sports in California, especially given the fact that attorney general opinions are advisory and do not carry the force of law. Opinion classifies DFS as illegal sports betting The opinion itself spans over 60 pages and draws a firm legal line, declaring both major DFS formats - such as pick'em-style and draft-style contests - as forms of illegal sports wagering. In particular, Bonta's office labeled pick'em contests - where participants predict athlete performance relative to statistical benchmarks - as "clearly" in violation of the penal code. "Pick'em participants clearly place bets on the outcome of sporting events," the opinion states, equating such formats to proposition bets and parlays commonly found in traditional sports betting. Draft-style fantasy contests, in which users select rosters of real athletes and earn points based on their statistical output, also failed to pass legal boundaries. The opinion rejected arguments that such games qualify for legal exemptions for skill-based contests or competitions. Instead, it asserted these contests represent a wager on the performance of third parties and are comparable to "bookmaking operations." Industry and operators push back Major players in the fantasy sports industry were quick to denounce the opinion, aligning themselves with Governor Newsom's stance. The Coalition for Fantasy Sports - a trade body representing companies like PrizePicks, Underdog, Splash, Dabble, and Betr - expressed strong disagreement with Bonta's conclusions. "We agree with Governor Newsom - AG Bonta got it wrong," said JT Foley, executive director of the Coalition. "The law has not changed, a fact the last two Attorneys General, Kamala Harris and Xavier Becerra, recognized as they specifically declined any similar action." FanDuel, one of the two largest DFS operators alongside DraftKings, echoed calls for dialogue. "We look forward to meeting with the Attorney General's office to talk through our next steps," a FanDuel spokesperson stated. In the lead-up to the opinion's publication, we reported that Underdog, a rising DFS operator, filed a lawsuit in an attempt to block its release. However, the case was dismissed by a state court judge, who ruled the company had waited too long to act and failed to demonstrate any immediate legal harm. The judge emphasized that attorney general opinions are non-binding and do not constitute a change in law. Tribal gaming interests support enforcement Meanwhile, tribal gaming groups applauded the attorney general’s opinion, pressing the state for enforcement against what they consider unlawful gambling operations. James Siva, chair of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, stated: "California has long turned a blind eye to illegal gambling - at the direct expense of tribal governments. Untold millions if not billions have been illegally wagered over the past decade." Siva called on state authorities to take immediate enforcement action, citing concerns over consumer protection and the integrity of the state's regulated gaming landscape.

The games and toys giant, Hasbro, has just announced new partnerships with leading game developers such as Evolution, Aristocrat Technologies, Bally's , and Galaxy Gaming, as its partners when it comes to its casino licensing goals. The new partnership deals are part of Hasbro's strategy, referred to as Playing to Win, which aims to bring its well-loved brands and innovations to consumers in more diverse markets. Global toy and entertainment leader Hasbro announces new licensing deals with Aristocrat, Galaxy Gaming, Evolution, and Bally's to expand fan-favorite brands into casinos worldwide. Hasbro, the global powerhouse behind beloved brands like Monopoly, Battleship, and Yahtzee, has unveiled a new slate of strategic partnerships aimed at transforming its iconic properties into casino gaming experiences. The company has partnered with four industry-leading gaming companies - Aristocrat Technologies, Galaxy Gaming, Evolution, and Bally's - in a series of multi-year licensing deals designed to reimagine its IP for the adult gaming market. These new alliances mark a significant step in Hasbro's long-standing presence in the casino space and follow a comprehensive market evaluation and partner selection process. The announcement aligns with Hasbro's 'Playing to Win' corporate strategy, launched in February of 2025, and this strategy focuses on cross-platform expansion, innovation, and meeting consumers wherever they play. With this latest move, Hasbro demonstrates its commitment to bringing fresh, immersive entertainment to adult audiences around the world. A strategic lineup of global gaming leaders The four new partners - each an innovator in its own segment - will bring Hasbro's IP to life through a variety of formats, including land-based slot machines, online casinos, digital table games, and live dealer gaming. Aristocrat Technologies will develop land-based slot machines featuring MONOPOLY. Evolution, known for its live and online casino offerings, will integrate MONOPOLY and other Hasbro Games into its platforms. Galaxy Gaming is licensed to produce casino table games based on MONOPOLY, BATTLESHIP, and YAHTZEE. Bally's, a well-known B2C online casino operator, will feature MONOPOLY-themed gameplay for online audiences. These companies will join existing partner Sciplay, enhancing Hasbro's footprint across both physical and digital casino experiences. Fans can expect new titles to launch as early as January of 2026, with games appearing in both traditional gaming venues and on online platforms. Reimagining beloved brands for adult audiences Claire Hunter Gregson, Hasbro's Director of Gaming Relationships, commented on the partnerships: "We're all about play - and that means meeting our fans wherever they are, from the game table to the casino floor. These visionary new partners have the expertise and imagination to reimagine our brands in bold, exciting ways for adult audiences." Hasbro has a nearly 30-year legacy of adapting its age-appropriate IP for the gambling sector, offering fans new ways to enjoy classic games. This expansion allows the company to tap into the ever-growing adult gaming demographic, with casino formats that resonate with nostalgic players and new fans. About Hasbro and its vision for the future Hasbro is more than a toy company - it's a global entertainment force that touches more than 500 million fans worldwide. With over a century of experience, the company's portfolio includes legacy and modern franchises such as Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, Transformers, Nerf, and of course, Monopoly. Hasbro's innovative franchise-first approach ensures that its IP continues to evolve across physical and digital games, consumer products, film, TV, and experiential entertainment. Recognized for its corporate citizenship and social impact, Hasbro has received multiple accolades including recognition as one of the 100 Best Corporate Citizens and a Brand that Matters by Fast Company. With the launch of these new partnerships, Hasbro is positioning itself at the front of entertainment innovation. The fusion of nostalgia and modern gameplay is set to captivate audiences when the new casino-based titles roll out in 2026. From Las Vegas casinos to online platforms across the globe, fans of Monopoly, Battleship, and Yahtzee can look forward to thrilling new ways to play.

Bragg Gaming Group has announced the launching of an array of new game titles and RGS (Remote Gaming Server) technology in collaboration with Fanatics Casino. The new game titles will be introduced to players in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, and players will have unlimited access to the full catalogue of games developed by Bragg Gaming and available through Indigo Magic, Wild Streak Gaming, and Atomic Slot Lab. The collection of games will be available through Bragg’s own RGS technology. Bragg Gaming Group has officially expanded its footprint in the US iGaming market through a major content launch with Fanatics Casino across three key states: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. The move sees Bragg's exclusive casino games and Remote Gaming Server technology now live on Fanatics' rapidly growing online casino platform, signaling a pivotal step forward in Bragg's North American growth strategy. A strategic partnership with America's fastest-growing online casino Fanatics Casino, already established in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and West Virginia, is considered the fastest-growing online casino in the US, offering a dynamic catalog of classic and modern casino games including blackjack, slots, video poker, roulette, and progressive jackpots. With the addition of Bragg's content portfolio, the platform now promises even more diversity and depth for its users. Through this partnership, players in these states gain access to Bragg's full suite of in-house and partner studio games via its advanced Bragg HUB content delivery platform. This includes proprietary titles from Atomic Slot Lab, Wild Streak Gaming, and Indigo Magic - studios known for delivering high-performing, engaging titles tailored for online casino audiences. Industry-leading content, delivered seamlessly Bragg's powerful RGS (Remote Gaming Server) technology facilitates the seamless integration of its titles into Fanatics Casino's ecosystem. As a result, users can now enjoy standout games like Queenie and Cai Fu Emperor Ways, as well as a range of new releases from Atomic Slot Lab. These additions aim to elevate the gaming experience with innovative mechanics, engaging narratives, and stellar visuals. Bragg is also bringing in games from its growing roster of studio partners including Incredible Technologies, Sega Sammy Creation, Bluberi, and King Show Games. Additional collaborations with Boomerang Studios, Reflex Gaming, and Four Leaf Gaming are expected to go live later in 2025, ensuring an ongoing flow of new titles. Fueling North American expansion This tri-state launch with Fanatics Casino supports Bragg Gaming's broader strategy of diversifying revenue streams and accelerating the distribution of exclusive content throughout North America. With over 30 active regulated markets globally, Bragg's latest move highlights its growing influence and reach within the US iGaming sector. "This launch represents a great opportunity to showcase Bragg's amazing titles across the three biggest iGaming markets in the US," said the Chief Executive Officer of Bragg Gaming Group, Matevz Mazij. With Fanatics' strong reputation in connecting sports fans with entertainment and merchandise, and with the natural synergy between sports betting and iGaming, we're excited to expand our presence together, he added. Mazij also noted that Bragg will continue rolling out new games regularly as part of the company's commitment to content innovation and player engagement. A shared vision for growth Fanatics Casino echoed similar enthusiasm for the collaboration. Kieron Shaw, Manager of Casino Games Content at Fanatics, stated, "We're thrilled to partner with Bragg Gaming Group to bring their diverse and engaging iGaming content to our players. This collaboration is a significant step in our strategy to expand our offerings and capitalize on the substantial growth projected for these key markets." He added that Bragg's innovative promotional tools and wide-ranging game library would help enrich the user experience and strengthen Fanatics' market presence. Bragg's continued push into the US market through high-profile partnerships like this with Fanatics Casino signals a broader trend of consolidation and growth among top-tier content providers. By combining its proprietary technology with compelling game titles and strategic alliances, Bragg is positioning itself as a key player in the future of online gaming. Both companies are encouraging players to follow their social media channels on X and Instagram for news on future game releases and promotional offers.

For the Fourth of July weekend, Las Vegas anticipates fewer guests and visitors, and hotel occupancies will be slightly less as well. Las Vegas expects around 340K visitors this year, less than a year ago with 344K. But there is light at the end of the rainbow, as experts project that visitors will spend more in 2025 than last year, according to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. Las Vegas is bracing for a slightly quieter Independence Day weekend in 2025, as projections from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority suggest a dip in both visitor numbers and hotel occupancy compared to last year. According to Kevin Bagger, Director of the LVCVA Research Center, an estimated 340,000 people are expected to visit Las Vegas over the three-day holiday weekend, down from 344,000 during the 2024 Fourth of July period. The hotel occupancy rate is also forecast to drop slightly, from 94.4% last year to 93.1% this year. The number of available hotel rooms has also decreased by 0.9%, with 150,909 rooms open to guests this year compared to the previous total in 2024. Interestingly, despite a three-day weekend - with July 4 falling on a Friday this year, in contrast to a Thursday last year - the draw to Las Vegas appears slightly diminished. Bagger attributes this to ongoing market volatility and shifting travel patterns among consumers. Spending up, but overall economic impact slightly down While visitor numbers and hotel stays are trending downward, direct visitor spending is set to rise due to increased costs for goods and services. The LVCVA forecasts spending of $449.5 million for the weekend, up 3.7% from the $433.5 million recorded last year. However, that increase in individual spending won't be enough to boost the wider economic effect. The total economic impact for the weekend is expected to drop by 0.2%, falling to $715.7 million. Experts suggest that a mix of global and domestic economic uncertainties - including tariffs, the lingering effects of the pandemic, and inflation - continue to influence consumer behavior in complex ways. "We have been seeing volatility for the last several years, and its impact on consumers has been mixed," said associate professor Amanda Bellarmino at UNLV's William F. Harrah College of Hospitality. Gas prices and lower crime rates boost travel appeal On a more encouraging note for American travelers, gasoline prices are about 30 cents per gallon lower than they were a year ago, easing one of the key cost burdens for road trippers. Additionally, national grocery price trends show slight declines, and inflation appears to be cooling. "For the average consumer, stock market volatility is not always indicative of spending habits," Bellarmino noted. "But with decreased crime rates and the lowest murder rate in four years, domestic destinations (like Las Vegas) are more attractive to many consumers than they have been in the past few years." One clear win for travelers is the drop in hotel prices across Las Vegas. A room-rate survey found that prices during the holiday weekend are closer to typical monthly averages than those usually seen during long weekends. For instance, the average rate for a room in downtown Vegas was $114.20 per night, while the average across all Southern Nevada properties was $202.75. For comparison, July's average daily citywide rate last year was $175.64, with downtown properties averaging $61.54. Luxury resorts still commanded premium rates, with Durango surprisingly topping the chart at $474 per night - more expensive than Bellagio, Wynn, Caesars Palace, and other high-end Strip properties. Meanwhile, 22 hotels across the region offered rooms under $100 a night, with the Thunderbird posting the lowest at $61. Las Vegas still a top destination Despite the modest dip in projected visitation, Las Vegas remains one of the most sought-after destinations for Fourth of July celebrations. WalletHub ranked the city as the No. 1 destination for the holiday, just ahead of Los Angeles and New York City. The ranking considered factors such as affordability, number of events, safety, and accessibility. Las Vegas scored particularly high in the number of celebrations - second only to Orlando - thanks to a slate of fireworks shows from major resorts and local community events. Other Nevada cities also appeared in WalletHub's rankings, with North Las Vegas at No. 32, Reno at No. 48, and Henderson at No. 64. Even with fewer visitors expected this year, Las Vegas's holiday charm, affordability, and entertainment offerings continue to make it a hotspot for July 4 travelers.

A historic first half of batting with elite performances, Cal Raleigh has now punched his ticket to the Home Run Derby with the hopes of becoming the first catcher to make a wild finish in the contest. The Seattle Mariners are seeing good strides thanks to him, and now he gets to prove his worth on the smashing game as well. The Mariners backstop is hoping to shine on the All-Star festivities as he joins the power-hitting event, set this July 14th at the Truist Park in Atlanta. For Raleigh, this is a full-circle moment considering that he grew up 150 miles away in North Carolina and even regularly played in the area in his youth travel ball days. Now it seems that he is going back for a familiar reason, just on a bigger stage this time. Earlier this month in an interview, Raleigh already hinted that he would love to do the Home Run Derby in a heartbeat. With Atlanta’s Ronald Acuña announcing that he will be joining the competition, Raleigh wasted no time in putting his name forward for the competition as well. Joining the Hype There were a lot of talks that Raleigh might pass up the opportunity considering that he is one of the players who are also slated to play in the All-Star Game and avoid too much fatigue to begin with. However, it seems that he is strongly considering to try it out and who knows, probably win it all as well. “It's really cool,” Raleigh said. “Obviously, for all my family, it'll be easy for them to get to. And friends have already been texting me and asking if I would do it. So now hopefully I can put their mind at ease a little bit.” The 2025 season has been a career-best campaign for Raleigh so far, with his offensive numbers putting him among the league leaders in home runs. His powerful swing from both sides of the plate has helped the Mariners stay competitive in the American League West. At this point in the season, he’s already crushed over 30 homers and has become one of the most feared switch-hitters in the game. What makes this even more impressive is that he’s doing it while handling one of the best pitching staffs in baseball. A Rewarding Season for Raleigh His selection for the Derby isn’t just a reward for his strong season—it’s a chance to make a statement. Historically, catchers haven't had much success in the Derby, often overshadowed by bigger names from corner infield or outfield positions. Raleigh wants to change that. If he can make it deep into the competition or even win, it would be a milestone for catchers in MLB history. And there's a special personal twist to the event, too. Raleigh’s father, Todd Raleigh, is expected to pitch to him during the Derby. Todd is a former college baseball coach, and the bond between father and son makes this moment even more significant. Cal also hinted at getting his younger brother involved in some way, possibly catching during the rounds. It adds a family dynamic to what’s already shaping up to be an emotional homecoming. The crowd in Atlanta will likely have mixed loyalties with local star Ronald Acuña Jr. also participating, but Raleigh’s roots in the region could help him draw support. He played plenty of youth baseball in the Georgia and Carolinas scene, so don’t be surprised if some fans in Braves country are secretly pulling for him.