
In the fast-paced world of Italian football, the struggle for survival is a harsh reality that many clubs face. The Serie A, known for its fierce competition and high stakes, is a battleground where only the strongest and most resilient teams can emerge victorious. At the helm of this battle is Walter Mazzarri, the head coach of Crotone, a team that finds itself precariously perched on the edge of relegation.Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Russell Wilson was in a giving mood and rewarded his teammates for the holidays. Wilson gifted the Steelers' offensive linemen a huge haul that included a $10,000 Airbnb gift card that can be used anywhere in the world, a Louis Vuitton duffel bag in Steelers colors, custom-made Steelers Good Man Brand shoes and a bottle of his wife Ciara's TenToOne Rum: Wilson is in his first season in Pittsburgh after signing a one-year deal this past offseason following his release from the Denver Broncos, but the team embraced him with open arms. The Steelers are tied for first place in the AFC North at 10-5 and already clinched a playoff berth. In nine games, the 36-year-old has thrown for 2,129 yards, 15 touchdowns and four interceptions. He's looked closer to the player who starred for years with the Seattle Seahawks than the one who struggled with the Broncos. The Steelers will be in action on Christmas Day against the Kansas City Chiefs, who lead the AFC with a 14-1 record.Sir Keir Starmer has said UK economic growth was his "number one mission" as he defended his trip to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The prime minister accused predecessor Boris Johnson of "going cap in hand from dictator to dictator" when the former PM met Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2022. But after having a meeting with the crown prince on Monday, Sir Keir said he wanted to drive up living standards across the UK and people to feel better off. "For that to happen", he said, "we have to win contracts and investment around the world, and UAE and Saudi Arabia are key partners of ours". "So I've been making the case that now's the time for further investment into our country", he said, adding that recent deals with Saudi Arabia have "yielded" 4,000 jobs to the UK. Politics latest: PM invites controversial Saudi crown prince to UK Also, the widow of murdered Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi urged Sir Keir to question the crown prince about his death. More on Boris Johnson Kemi Badenoch says partygate scandal was 'overblown' Cleverly done? Boris Johnson denies mocking public with claim they 'avidly craved' lockdown rules Related Topics: Boris Johnson Jamal Khashoggi Mohammed bin Salman Saudi Arabia Sir Keir Starmer Mr Khashoggi, a columnist for the Washington Post, was killed and dismembered by Saudi agents in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in an operation which US intelligence believed was ordered by Prince Mohammed. The crown prince has denied the accusation. Hanan Elatr Khashoggi said Sir Keir should demand answers about what happened to her husband, telling The Guardian she hoped his case "has not been forgotten". Dan Dolan, the group deputy executive director of campaign group Reprieve, called on Sir Keir to raise the issue of Abdullah al Howaiti and Abdullah al Derazi, children facing the death penalty in Saudi Arabia, saying "he could save their lives". Read more from Sky News: Home Office pauses decisions on Syrian asylum claims after fall of Assad PM: No decision pending on removing Syrian rebel group from banned list A Downing Street spokesperson said the two men discussed Saudi Arabia's attempts to improve human rights in the country, despite it being a lower priority than the economy, as well as the situation in Israel and Gaza. The prime minister invited the crown prince to the UK, and said he hoped they would be able to go to a football match in between meetings "if he took up the offer". A new defence partnership between the two countries was announced, including on combat air capabilities, which is set to last for generations. The Royal Saudi Air Force has operated UK-manufactured Typhoon combat aircraft since 2008. Follow our channel and never miss an update. Mr Starmer's long-planned trip to the Middle East came amid regional uncertainty following the collapse of President Bashar al Assad's regime in Syria. The UK announced an additional £11m of humanitarian aid for the most vulnerable people in Syria.
Don’t dismiss the Vision Pro just yet. Sure, rumors have been swirling that the company has pretty much halted all production of their flagship spatial computing device, but Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has some interesting updates. His scoop? Apple and Sony, are reportedly in talks to integrate PlayStation VR2’s Sense controllers with Apple’s Vision Pro headset. This partnership, if realized, could reshape how we think about virtual and mixed reality experiences, seamlessly blending gaming prowess with Apple’s signature design ethos. The Vision Pro, Apple’s first foray into spatial computing, debuted as a device with lofty ambitions. Relying on gaze-and-pinch interactions paired with hand-tracking, its interface felt futuristic yet restrained when stacked against the tactile immersion offered by physical controllers. While its approach works wonders for casual gaming and productivity tasks, the absence of tactile input left a gaping hole in its potential for more dynamic, fast-paced VR gaming. Enter Sony, whose PS VR2 Sense controllers are heralded for their precise tracking, haptic feedback, and adaptive triggers. It’s easy to see why Apple would tap into Sony’s expertise to elevate Vision Pro’s gaming and interactive experiences. Gurman, a well-known source of tech scoops, shared that Apple initiated discussions with Sony earlier this year, targeting the seamless integration of the Sense controllers into the Vision Pro ecosystem. The collaboration promises to extend beyond just gaming, allowing users to navigate visionOS interfaces using Sony’s controllers. For Vision Pro, this move is not just a band-aid solution but a strategic decision aimed at capturing a more serious gaming demographic. The absence of robust gaming support has been a sticking point for Vision Pro since its announcement. Adding PS VR2 Sense controllers could be the olive branch Apple extends to hardcore gamers who’ve so far been unimpressed by its current offerings. What’s particularly intriguing is the potential ripple effect this partnership could have on the gaming industry. Sony has been fiercely protective of its PS VR2 ecosystem, even to the extent of not selling its Sense controllers separately. Yet, this exclusivity might soften if Sony and Apple push ahead with making these controllers available through Apple’s sales channels. Imagine walking into an Apple Store, purchasing a PS VR2 Sense controller, and unlocking new gaming experiences on a Vision Pro. It’s a scenario that positions both companies as collaborators rather than competitors—an unusual but potentially brilliant strategy. But could this partnership lead to something even bigger? Some speculate it might pave the way for a broader gaming alliance between Apple and Sony. Such a move would undoubtedly send shockwaves through the gaming industry, especially with Microsoft’s Xbox looming large as the primary rival. While Apple could technically develop its own controllers tailored to the Vision Pro, partnering with Sony allows them to sidestep years of R&D and leverage Sony’s established credibility among gamers. Beyond gaming, this partnership could also enhance Vision Pro’s value proposition for non-gaming applications. The tactile advantages of Sony’s controllers could transform how professionals interact with 3D models, designers manipulate virtual canvases, or filmmakers storyboard immersive scenes. By broadening its use cases, Apple has a shot at making Vision Pro more than a niche device for early adopters or AR enthusiasts. Yet, as with any ambitious endeavor, there are potential roadblocks. Gurman notes that the announcement, initially planned for weeks ago, was delayed—possibly signaling internal hiccups or last-minute refinements. Whether it’s technical integration challenges, supply chain constraints, or plain old corporate hesitance, there’s always a chance this partnership could stall or be scrapped altogether. However, the timing of this rumor feels strategic. Vision Pro’s early reviews have highlighted its groundbreaking potential while pointing out areas where it falls short. Apple knows that it must demonstrate more than technological novelty to justify the $3,500 price tag. Teaming up with Sony to bring richer gaming and interactive experiences could be the shot in the arm Vision Pro needs as it prepares for its full release next year. For now, Apple and Sony remain tight-lipped, but the possibility of this partnership is tantalizing. It paints a picture of a future where Apple’s minimalistic design philosophy meets Sony’s immersive gaming technology, creating an ecosystem that’s not only expansive but compelling. If nothing else, it underscores Apple’s willingness to think beyond its walled garden—a refreshing shift for a company known for keeping things close to its chest. So, will this be the start of a beautiful friendship between Apple and Sony, or just another chapter in the rumor mill? Only time will tell. But for now, the idea of navigating visionOS with a PS VR2 Sense controller is enough to keep tech enthusiasts and gamers alike dreaming of the possibilities. And if this collaboration does take off, maybe it’s time to rethink that Xbox subscription—just saying.Israeli police set to probe Netanyahu’s wife over ‘harassment of witnesses’
In contrast to the reliance on old guards, the 2024 summer transfer window has been marked by a lack of impactful signings across the league. Many clubs have struggled to find the right players to strengthen their squads, with some high-profile signings failing to live up to expectations. The absence of significant new additions has placed an even greater emphasis on the importance of team chemistry and continuity, making the performances of veteran players all the more crucial.The moment of victory was nothing short of electrifying. Cheers erupted, confetti filled the air, and emotions ran high as the champions raised the trophy in triumph. It was a celebration of all the hard work, sacrifice, and dedication that had led them to this memorable moment.
LONDON (AP) — West Ham players showed their support for seriously injured teammate Michail Antonio before and during their Premier League home win against Wolverhampton on Monday, two days after his car crash. The players warmed up in “Antonio 9” jerseys and walked on to the field in tops adorning his name. The club will put the walk-out tops up for auction along with every match jersey worn against Wolves, with the proceeds going to medical charities and matched by the club’s board. West Ham fans stood in London Stadium and applauded for Antonio in the ninth, and when captain Jarrod Bowen scored the 2-1 winner in the second half, he approached supporters behind the goal carrying an Antonio jersey. “To share that moment, he's not here with us but I'm sure (Antonio) was watching and the fans, you heard them,” Bowen told broadcaster Sky Sports. “An emotional couple of days.” Before the game, Bowen said, “Everyone loves Mic, he is a big character. “He is not just a teammate, he is a friend and has been for many years. A dad as well to beautiful children. It is one of those things where life is bigger than football. The main thing is Mic is safe and well and here to tell the story. Saturday was a really difficult time. He is a warrior and a fighter, he always has been, and I know he will be back stronger for this." Antonio, a 34-year-old Jamaica international, was recovering in hospital after undergoing surgery on what West Ham described as a “lower limb fracture.” He was involved in a one-car incident outside London on Saturday, after which he was hospitalized and kept under close supervision. He wished the team well by video before the match. Antonio has made more than 300 appearances for West Ham since joining the club from Nottingham Forest in 2015, and played in all 14 games this season before the incident. AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccerIn addition to its powerful drivetrain, the Song Pro's plug-in hybrid system offers multiple driving modes, including hybrid mode, electric mode, and sport mode. This flexibility allows drivers to tailor their driving experience to their preferences, whether they prioritize efficiency, performance, or eco-friendliness. The Song Pro also features a smart energy management system that optimizes the use of its electric and gasoline power sources, ensuring seamless transitions between modes and maximizing overall efficiency.
ANN ARBOR, Michigan (AP) — Michigan defensive lineman Kenneth Grant is skipping his final college season to enter the NFL draft. Grant, a key part of the Wolverines' 2023 national championship team, announced his decision Thursday on X, formerly known as Twitter. Fellow Michigan interior lineman Mason Graham had already declared for the draft. Both are projected as likely first-round picks. The 6-foot-3, 339-pound Grant was a third-team Associated Press All-American. He had 32 tackles, 6 1/2 tackles for loss and a pair of fumble recoveries. Grant helped Michigan upset Ohio State in the Big Ten regular-season finale, making four tackles. Cornerback Will Johnson and tight end Colston Loveland have also declared for the draft leading up to Michigan's game against No. 11 Alabama in the ReliaQuest Bowl. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-footballNEW YORK, Dec. 09, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Solomon Partners , a leading financial advisory firm and independent affiliate of Natixis, is pleased to announce the appointment of Arik Rashkes as a Partner and Group Head. Arik will be responsible for leading and building out a broader coverage effort within the Financial Institutions sector. With the addition of the Financial Institutions Group, Solomon now operates 12 industry groups with over 30 discreet sub-segments. “Launching a Financial Institutions Group aligns with our mission to expand and serve clients across a diverse set of industries,” said Marc Cooper, CEO of Solomon Partners. “We are honored to have Arik, a highly respected expert in the financial services field, join us to lead this new initiative.” Mr. Rashkes brings over 25 years of experience to Solomon Partners. He joins from Houlihan Lokey, where he served as Co-Head of US Financial Services and Head of Insurance. In these roles, he advised numerous Fortune 500 and international companies, mid-caps, entrepreneurs, and private equity investors. His previous experience includes positions at Blackstone Advisory Partners, where he focused on M&A transactions in the insurance sector, and Deutsche Bank in the Financial Institutions Group, where he executed multinational and cross-border transactions for insurance companies. He began his career at Citi in 1999. “Arik epitomizes the strengths Solomon Partners is known for,” added Marc Cooper. “He is among the foremost experts in the insurance industry, an exceptionally talented banker, and a true trusted advisor. His impressive track record of orchestrating complex transactions across the insurance sector speaks for itself.” Mr. Rashkes commented, “There is a tremendous opportunity to build a first-class Financial Institutions Group at Solomon, and I am excited to lead this effort.” Mr. Rashkes earned a BA in Business Administration from the Arison School of Business at Reichman University in Israel and an MBA from Columbia Business School. About Solomon Partners Founded in 1989, Solomon Partners is a leading financial advisory firm with a legacy as one of the oldest independent investment banks. Our difference is unmatched industry knowledge in the sectors we cover, creating superior value with unrivaled wisdom for our clients. We advise clients on mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, restructurings, recapitalizations, capital markets solutions and activism defense across a range of verticals. These include Business Services, Consumer Retail, Distribution, Financial Institutions, FinTech, Financial Sponsors, Healthcare, Grocery, Pharmacy & Restaurants, Industrials, Infrastructure, Power & Renewables, Media and Technology. Solomon Partners is an independently operated affiliate of Natixis, part of Groupe BPCE. For further information, visit solomonpartners.com . A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c76ea22e-5df8-421e-82b0-aecdb89e6d21
Ferencváros, the reigning champions of the Hungarian first division, will provide Keita with the platform to reignite his career and make a significant impact. Known for their attacking style of play and passionate fan base, the club offers Keita the opportunity to showcase his skillset and make a name for himself in a new league.Senators voted to pass a new version of a stopgap spending bill early Saturday morning after the midnight deadline for a partial government shutdown came and went. A group of 51 bipartisan lawmakers is urging House negotiators to keep up the flow of dollars to a visa program for Afghans fleeing the Taliban takeover of their country. Reps. Jason Crow, D-Colo., and Zach Nunn, R-Iowa, wrote to the House of Representatives' top appropriators as they continue to negotiate federal funding for the remainder of fiscal year (FY) 2025. "We write to urge you to maintain critical provisions for the Afghan Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program1 in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 appropriations package. Authorizing new Afghan SIVs is critical to vetting and relocating qualified Afghan principal applicants currently in the processing pipeline," they wrote to House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole, R-Okla., and others. It comes as President-elect Trump promised to work toward steep spending cuts in the coming federal funding fights. He wrote on Truth Social last week, "The United States will cut Hundreds of Billions of Dollars in spending next year through Reconciliation!" NEW REPORT WARNS OF GROWING NATIONAL SECURITY THREAT TO U.S. AS CHINA BUILDS AI: ‘SIGNIFICANT AND CONCERNING’ Lawmakers are calling for the preservation of an Afghan visa program as President-elect Trump vows steep spending cuts. (Getty Images) People in Trump's orbit, including some House Republicans, are pushing for him to have greater control over how congressionally appropriated funds are spent. Meanwhile, Trump tapped Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy last month to lead an advisory panel on cost-cutting dubbed the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The duo have already positioned themselves as influential players in Congress' spending discussions as well, having led the revolt against a 1,547-page government funding bill that was a product of bipartisan negotiations. They have not, however, said where they want to see Congress pull back on spending. EXPERTS WARN SYRIAN REBEL VICTORY POSES ‘WILDLY COMPLEX’ NATIONAL SECURITY THREAT: ‘WHO KNOWS WHAT’S NEXT?' Reps. Jason Crow and Zach Nunn, both military veterans, led the bipartisan letter. (Getty Images) The 51 lawmakers pushing for the Afghan SIV program to be preserved argue it is "a life-saving path to safety for Afghan nationals who face serious danger as a result of their work alongside U.S. troops, diplomats, and contractors." "Congress must continue this work so that the State Department is able to issue visas to eligible Afghans who face imminent threats from the Taliban, Islamic State, and other hostile groups because of their service to the U.S. and our allies," they wrote. The Afghan SIV program was first enacted in 2009, but saw new importance after the Taliban's lightening-fast takeover of Afghanistan in 2021 – which precipitated the U.S.'s withdrawal after decades in the Middle Eastern country. Congress authorized additional visas under the program every year since FY 2019, according to the letter. CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP Congressional negotiators have so far failed to come to an agreement on FY 2025 spending, forcing lawmakers to pass two extensions of last year's funding levels to prevent a partial government shutdown . The most recent extension, called a continuing resolution (CR), gives lawmakers until March 14 to make a deal. Elizabeth Elkind is a politics reporter for Fox News Digital leading coverage of the House of Representatives. Previous digital bylines seen at Daily Mail and CBS News. Follow on Twitter at @liz_elkind and send tips to elizabeth.elkind@fox.comThe developers of "Black Myth: Wukong" have been praised for their commitment to delivering high-quality content and engaging experiences for players. The attention to detail, stunning visuals, and immersive gameplay have earned the game a dedicated fanbase, who eagerly await each new update and challenge. With the latest boss challenge, the developers have once again demonstrated their dedication to providing players with thrilling adventures and memorable experiences.
Champions League Focus: Juventus vs Manchester City - Defending Champions Face Tough Contest Against Formidable Foes
Furthermore, the Chinese Table Tennis Team's impressive performance in the ITTF World Ranking has further solidified their position as the best in the world. With multiple players consistently ranked at the top of the world rankings, the Chinese team has proven time and time again that they are the ones to beat, showcasing their unrivaled skill, determination, and passion for the sport.
Marcelo's coaching style has been hailed as innovative and tactical, with a focus on fluid attacking play and solid defensive organization. His ability to bring out the best in each player on the team has been evident in Chelsea's performances on the field. The players have shown great chemistry and cohesion, working together seamlessly to create scoring opportunities and keep opponents at bay.Abortions are up in the US. It's a complicated picture as women turn to pills, travelManchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, have solidified their status as a powerhouse in English football not only through their impressive on-field performances but also their ability to attract top talent through lucrative wage offers. With 9 players among the top 30 earners, including stars like Kevin De Bruyne, Raheem Sterling, and Sergio Aguero, it is clear that City are willing to invest heavily in their squad to maintain their dominance at the top of the table.
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In a recent and rather unusual case, a man has made headlines for his repeated failures in a self-discipline challenge, despite investing a significant sum of $20,000 into the endeavor. The individual, whose identity remains undisclosed, attempted the self-discipline challenge three times but fell short of meeting the requirements each time. As a result, the matter has escalated to the point where legal action has been taken, with the court officially opening a case.
Newcastle United’s hopes of returning to European football after a one-season absence have been boosted ahead of their Boxing Day home clash with top six rivals Aston Villa. Eddie Howe’s side have reacted well to their disappointing 4-2 defeat at Brentford earlier this month by taking maximum points from a home game against struggling Leicester City and Saturday’s visit to Ipswich Town . There has also been an upturn in United’s form in front of goal after they plundered their way to a combined eight goals in the consecutive victories. Another route to Europe moved a step closer when Sandro Tonali scored twice in last week’s 3-1 win in a Carabao Cup quarter-final tie with Brentford that helped set up a two-legged semi-final meeting with Arsenal . With crucial league fixtures against Aston Villa and Manchester United lying ahead, we take a look at the latest predicted Premier League table with the help of the stats experts at OPTA . Predicted position: 20th - Predicted points: 22 | Getty Images Predicted position: 19th - Predicted points: 29 | Getty Images Predicted position: 18th - Predicted points: 32 | Getty Images Predicted position: 17th - Predicted points: 32 | Wolves via Getty ImagesFOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Drake Maye received a nice ovation from the Gillette Stadium crowd when he returned to Saturday’s game after it appeared the New England Patriots had lost their rookie quarterback to another head injury. By the fourth quarter, those fans who chose to stick around until the end of a 40-7 lopsided loss to the Los Angeles Chargers chose to voice their displeasure in a season in which very little has gone right for the former NFL powerhouse. Chants of “Fire Mayo!” reverberated throughout the stadium, which was a quarter full by game’s end. “You hear those things. At the same time, they paid to sit in the seats, and we’ve got to play better. If we play better, we don’t have to hear that stuff,” head coach Jerod Mayo said after the Patriots dropped their sixth straight game. Instead of building off last week’s strong effort at Buffalo, New England took another series of steps backward in the season’s penultimate game. With another game against the Bills on tap next weekend, questions concerning the future of Mayo and several assistant coaches – mostly notably offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt and defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington – figure to intensify. “I’m always under pressure and it’s been that way for a very long time, not just when I became the head coach of the Patriots. I’m okay. Look, I always do what’s best for the team,” Mayo said. “I have full confidence in the staff. I have full confidence in the players in (the locker room). I think again, it just comes down to being consistent across the board.” Remember, the Patriots parted ways with six-time Super Bowl winner Bill Belichick following last year’s dismal 4-13 record. The coaching change didn’t produce the desired upward swing, with New England staring at the possibility of producing fewer wins in Mayo’s first season. “I’m just tired of losing. I’m trying to be in the playoffs and have a winning season,” said second-year receiver DeMario Douglas, who connected with Maye for New England’s lone touchdown. The most important asset in the Patriots’ rebuilding efforts, Maye was questionable to return with a head injury after taking a blow to the helmet in the first quarter. The No. 3 overall pick from this spring’s NFL draft scrambled near the sideline on third down of the Patriots’ first possession when he was hit by Chargers cornerback Cam Hart. Maye stayed down on the turf for several seconds before eventually getting up and jogging off the field. He briefly sat on the bench before going to the medical tent for evaluation. He was replaced by backup Jacoby Brissett, but for only one series that ended with a three-and-out. After further evaluation in the locker room, Maye returned to the game for the Patriots’ third series at the 10:15 mark of the second quarter. The 22-year-old was knocked out of the Patriots’ Week 8 win over the New York Jets after he suffered a blow to the back of his head. “Just kind of got my bell rung on the first drive. I feel good, I still feel good, and then I was good to go,” Maye said afterward. To his teammates, it wasn't a shock to see Maye re-enter the game after taking a blow to the head. On his first play back under center, Maye took off for a 9-yard run and drew an unnecessary roughness penalty. “He didn’t have to come back, but he did. That gave everyone a lot of confidence,” Patriots wide receiver Kayshon Boutte said. Maye set a Patriots rookie franchise record for touchdown passes in consecutive games (eight) when he connected with Douglas on a play on which the Chargers called for defensive offsides. He also turned the ball over for the eighth straight game – a fumble on a pitch attempt to Douglas that Los Angeles turned into points to make it 17-0 in the second quarter. “I’ve got to give him a better ball to catch. That falls back on me,” Maye said. It appears the Patriots dodged a bullet with respect to Maye and his health. Now, the focus shifts back to Mayo and what his 2025 status. “I think the biggest thing was you don’t see those guys quitting. I think the score may not tell that today, but I feel like the guys are still wanting to win. We’re still leaving it out there every week, and I think that was kind of my message to the team,” Maye said. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
The suspect in the high-profile killing of a health insurance CEO that has gripped the United States graduated from an Ivy League university, reportedly hails from a wealthy family, and wrote social media posts brimming with cerebral musings. Luigi Mangione, 26, was thrust into the spotlight Monday after police revealed his identity as their person of interest, crediting his arrest to a tip from a McDonald's worker. He has been connected by police to the fatal shooting of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson last week in broad daylight, in a case that has laid bare deep frustrations and anger with the nation's privatized medical system. News of his capture triggered an explosion of online activity, with Mangione quickly amassing new followers on social media as citizen sleuths and US media try to understand who he is. While some lauded him as a hero and lamented his arrest, others analyzed his intellectual takes in search of ideological clues. A photo on one of his social media accounts includes an X-ray of an apparently injured spine, though no explicit political affiliation has emerged. Meanwhile, memes and jokes proliferated, many riffing on his first name and comparing him to the "Mario Bros." character Luigi, sometimes depicted in AI-altered images wielding a gun or holding a Big Mac. "Godspeed. Please know that we all hear you," wrote one user on Facebook. "I want to donate to your defense fund," added another. According to Mangione's LinkedIn profile, he is employed as a data engineer at TrueCar, a California-based online auto marketplace. A company spokesperson told AFP Mangione "has not been an employee of our company since 2023." Although he had been living in Hawaii ahead of the killing, he originally hails from Towson, Maryland, near Baltimore. He comes from a prominent and wealthy Italian-American family, according to the Baltimore Banner. The family owns local businesses, including the Hayfields Country Club, per the club's website. A standout student, Mangione graduated at the top of his high school class in 2016. In an interview with his local paper at the time, he praised his teachers for fostering a passion for learning beyond grades and encouraging intellectual curiosity. He went on to attend the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, where he completed both a bachelor's and master's degree in computer science by 2020, according to a university spokesperson. While at Penn, Mangione co-led a group of 60 undergraduates who collaborated on video game projects, as noted in a now-deleted university webpage, archived on the Wayback Machine. On Instagram, where his following has skyrocketed from hundreds to tens of thousands, Mangione shared snapshots of his travels in Mexico, Puerto Rico and Hawaii. He also posted shirtless photos flaunting a six-pack and appeared in celebratory posts with fellow members of the Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. However, it is on X (formerly Twitter) that users have scoured Mangione's posts for potential motives. His header photo -- an X-ray of a spine with bolts -- remains cryptic, with no public explanation. Finding a coherent political ideology has also proved elusive. Mangione has linked approvingly to posts criticizing secularism as a harmful consequence of Christianity's decline. In April, he wrote, "Horror vacui (nature abhors a vacuum)." The following month, he posted an essay he wrote in high school titled "How Christianity Prospered by Appealing to the Lower Classes of Ancient Rome." In another post from April, he speculated that Japan's low birthrate stems from societal disconnection, adding that "fleshlights" and other vaginal-replica sex toys should be banned. ia/nroAs the dust settles and the confetti clears, the Fearless Covenant Ant Esports team stands tall as the epitome of excellence in the world of competitive gaming. Their journey to the top was a testament to their skill, determination, and unwavering commitment to the game.