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Diksha Dagar, a trailblazing golfer, has etched her name in the annals of sports history. Despite her profound deafness, she has defied limitations, excelling both on the golf course and in the classroom.As a second-year BCom (Prog) student at Delhi University's School of Open Learning (SOL), Dagar recently achieved a remarkable feat by tying for 24th position in the 2024 Amundi German Masters. Her accolades extend beyond the golf course, as she was honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award in January 2023.Dagar's journey has been marked by resilience and determination. Born with profound deafness, she relies primarily on lip-reading or sign language to communicate. "I don't think any athlete wants to be referred to [as disabled]," she asserts. "It's like being labelled as someone lesser and being put in a box."Despite the challenges, Dagar refuses to let her disability define her. She has become the only golfer to participate in both the Olympics and the Deaflympics, where she has won two medals. "The biggest challenge [as a hearing-impaired person] is when people have different accents, especially on international tours," she explains. "But overcoming that is as important for me as excelling in my discipline."Dagar's academic pursuits are equally impressive. She credits SOL for providing an "inclusive space" for differently-abled athletes. "When I'm at DU, I feel there are opportunities available to us," she says. "We're the selected few, so we're better off than most physically challenged people in other parts of the country."However, Dagar emphasizes the need for athlete-specific courses in DU to ensure inclusivity for athletes who prioritize their academics. "Being a professional athlete, my academics often take a backseat," she admits. "But it's a well-deliberated decision. That's where an institution like SOL is helpful; it's why I can play 100 LET tournaments."Diksha Dagar's story is an inspiration to all. She has proven that with determination and support, anything is possible. Her achievements on and off the golf course serve as a testament to her unwavering spirit and the transformative power of inclusivity.

Rose Zhang, the 20-year-old Stanford product, has finally delivered on the immense expectations surrounding her since her professional debut last year. On Sunday, she captured the Cognizant Founders Cup, her first LPGA Tour victory, with a stunning birdie run on the final five holes.Zhang's triumph ended Nelly Korda's record-tying winning streak of five consecutive events. Korda, who had struggled in the final two rounds, finished tied for seventh.Zhang's victory was a testament to her resilience and determination. Despite a shaky start where she almost fell on her rear end, she managed to make par and maintain her composure.As the round progressed, Zhang and Madelene Sagstrom engaged in a stroke-play duel, with the rest of the field trailing behind. Sagstrom held a three-shot lead after 13 holes, but Zhang's birdies on 14, 15, 17, and 18 propelled her to victory.Sagstrom, who had been seeking her first victory since 2020, was left heartbroken by the outcome. However, she acknowledged Zhang's exceptional play and expressed her satisfaction with her own performance.Zhang's victory is a significant milestone in her young career. It reignited her passion for the game and proved that she has the talent and determination to compete at the highest level.

Indian golfer Shubhankar Sharma displayed resilience on Friday, making the cut at the Volvo China Open in Beijing despite a challenging second round. The 27-year-old carded a one-over 73, bringing his total score to five-under for 36 holes.Sharma's round started promisingly with a birdie on the ninth hole. However, he encountered setbacks on the back nine, dropping shots on the 12th and 14th holes. Despite these setbacks, Sharma remained composed and finished the day in a tie for 32nd place.Fellow Indian golfer Om Prakash, who had a promising start with a 70 on the first day, faltered in the second round. He carded a two-over 75, missing the cut by a narrow margin. Prakash's round was marred by a double bogey, two bogeys, and two birdies.At the top of the leaderboard, Sebastian Soderberg continued his impressive form. The Swede shot a blistering seven-under 65, propelled by six birdies on the back nine. Soderberg now holds a commanding three-shot lead over England's Paul Warring, who is at 13-under. Italian Guido Migliozzi is in third place at 12-under.Sharma's performance at the Volvo China Open is a testament to his determination and skill. Despite facing challenges, he managed to make the cut and remains in contention for a top finish. The tournament concludes on Sunday, and Sharma will be hoping to continue his strong play and secure a podium spot.

Collin Morikawa, the two-time major champion, has rediscovered his golfing prowess after experiencing a breakthrough moment at the Masters. Known for his exceptional iron play, Morikawa had been struggling in recent years. However, a revelation at the driving range on Monday ignited a resurgence in his game.Morikawa's newfound confidence with his irons was evident in his performance at Augusta National. He shot a solid 69 on Saturday, the second-best round of the day, and was just one stroke behind leader Scottie Scheffler. His precision with his irons allowed him to create numerous birdie opportunities.In addition to his improved iron play, Morikawa also made a bold decision to switch putters mid-tournament. Despite the reluctance of players to make equipment changes during competition, Morikawa reverted to his old Olson prototype blade after using a Spider Tour X mallet in the first round. This change proved to be a masterstroke, as he felt more comfortable and confident with his putting.Morikawa's resurgence is a testament to his resilience and determination. After a difficult period, he has found a way to rediscover his form and is now a contender for the Masters title. A victory would bring him one step closer to a career grand slam, with only the US Open trophy missing from his collection.Morikawa's journey serves as a reminder that even the most talented players can experience setbacks. However, with perseverance and a willingness to adapt, they can overcome adversity and return to their peak performance.

Tiger Woods, the legendary golfer, has made history once again at the Masters Tournament. Despite enduring numerous injuries and a devastating car accident, Woods has extended his record-breaking streak of consecutive cuts to 24.On Friday, Woods faced a grueling day at Augusta National. He completed the final five holes of his opening round, which was delayed by storms, and then played another 18 holes. Despite the challenging conditions, Woods managed to shoot an even-par 72, ensuring his place in the weekend rounds.Woods' performance was particularly impressive considering his limited preparation. He has played just one less hole in the past three months than he did on Friday. However, Augusta National seems to bring out the best in him."I'm tired," Woods admitted. "But Lance (Bennett, his caddie) and I really did some good fighting today, and we've got a chance."Woods' determination and resilience were evident throughout the round. He made several clutch chips and putts to keep his score above the cut line. His accuracy off the tee was also impressive, hitting 25 of 28 fairways.Despite facing a daunting deficit, Woods remains confident in his chances of winning the tournament. "I'm right there," he said. "I don't think anyone is going to run off and hide right now."Woods' performance has inspired awe and admiration from fellow golfers. Stewart Hagestad, an amateur who missed the cut, said, "The guy has barely played at all in the last calendar year, and he's 1 over. That's alien stuff. That's unbelievable."Max Homa, who is tied for the lead, was impressed by Woods' composure on the 18th green when strong winds whipped up sand. "He's standing there like a statue and then poured it right in the middle," Homa said.Woods' record-breaking streak and his determination to win his sixth green jacket are a testament to his greatness. He remains a force to be reckoned with at Augusta National, and his presence in the weekend rounds is sure to add excitement to the tournament.

Tiger Woods, the legendary golfer, faces a historic opportunity at the 88th Masters Tournament. Despite enduring severe leg injuries from a 2021 car crash, Woods aims to break the record for consecutive Masters appearances, currently held by Gary Player and Fred Couples.Woods began his first round on Thursday, completing 13 holes before darkness halted play. He stands at one-under par, sharing 17th place. To make the cut, Woods must complete the remaining five holes of round one and endure 18 more in round two.The Augusta National course presents a significant physical challenge, with its hilly terrain and long distances. Woods acknowledged the strain on his body, stating, "It's certainly one of the more hillier walks we have on tour."Despite the challenges, Woods remains determined. He sank a birdie putt at the first hole, recovered from a bogey at the fourth, and made another birdie at the eighth. He parred the next five holes before play was suspended.Woods's return to competition has been marked by uncertainty regarding his physical condition. He admitted, "Things just flare up. Some days I just feel really good, and other days, not so much."The brisk and swirling winds on Thursday added to the difficulty of the course. Woods described it as "one of the most tricky days I've ever been a part of."Woods's quest to make history will be a testament to his resilience and determination. If he can overcome the physical challenges and make the cut, he will have the chance to chase his 16th major championship.

Rory McIlroy, the 34-year-old Northern Irish golfer, continues his pursuit of a first Masters Green Jacket, which would complete his career grand slam. Despite 12 cuts and seven top-10s in 15 starts at Augusta National Golf Club, McIlroy has yet to sustain his brilliance over four rounds.Since 2014, the Masters has become an elusive goal for McIlroy. He has experimented with various approaches, including playing fewer tournaments and seeking psychological guidance. However, his efforts have not yielded the desired results.In 2022, McIlroy finished second to Scottie Scheffler, his best Masters finish. This year, he has made changes to his preparation, including a trip to Las Vegas to work with Butch Harmon, Tiger Woods' former coach.McIlroy believes that maintaining normalcy and staying relaxed is crucial for his success. He has also focused on improving his weaknesses, such as putting, and elevating his strengths.One key factor that has hindered McIlroy at the Masters is his inability to start strong. Since 2009, he has had only two sub-70 Thursday rounds. This year, with the opening round expected to be completed on Friday morning due to weather disruptions, a hot start will be essential.McIlroy will play his first two rounds alongside world No. 1 Scheffler and Xander Schauffele. He is determined to overcome his past struggles and finally claim the elusive Green Jacket.

Tiger Woods, the legendary golfer, is determined to don the Masters green jacket for a record-equaling sixth time despite the physical challenges he faces. The undulating terrain of Augusta National Golf Club poses significant obstacles, with severe slopes on fairways and greens. Woods' fused ankle and other injuries make it difficult to play shots from non-tee areas, causing discomfort and pain.Despite these challenges, Woods remains confident in his abilities. "If everything comes together, I think I can get one more," he said. His shot-making and creativity are still intact, but his body limits his practice sessions and shot count.Woods has adapted his training to focus on quality over quantity. He works daily to improve his flexibility, strength, and recovery. His practice sessions are now more targeted and efficient.Woods' intimate knowledge of Augusta National Golf Club is a significant advantage. He understands the intricacies of the course and knows where to hit his shots and avoid potential hazards. This knowledge has contributed to his 14 top-10 finishes in 25 starts at the Masters.Woods' love for golf and competition drives him to push through the physical pain. He enjoys the preparation and the thrill of competing. His passion for the sport has been a key factor in his successful career.Woods will tee off at 1:24pm (10:54pm IST) alongside Jason Day and Max Homa. Despite the challenges, he remains a contender for the coveted green jacket.

Veer Ahlawat, renowned for his prodigious hitting prowess, surged within striking distance of the lead on the second day of the prestigious Hero Indian Open at the DLF Golf and Country Club in Gurugram. The tournament witnessed a remarkable course record of 10-under 62 by Norway's Espen Kofstad, eclipsing the previous best of 64 set by Shubhankar Sharma in 2018 and Arjun Puri in 2022.Ahlawat, starting from the 10th hole, displayed consistent play with pars on the first seven holes. He then unleashed a flurry of three consecutive birdies before a momentary lapse on the second hole. However, he responded with an impressive 'eagle' on the fourth hole, leaving him just 10 feet from the pin. Two more birdies followed, improving his score from a first-day 69 to a commendable 66.Meanwhile, Japanese golfer Keita Nakajima maintained his overnight lead with a successive seven-under 65, giving him a two-round tally of 130. He held a two-shot advantage over Frenchman Romain Langasque and a three-stroke lead over Italian Matteo Manassero.Nakajima's exceptional putting earned him five birdies in a row on the front nine, propelling him to a commanding position. He added two more birdies after the turn, moving to -14 with seven holes remaining. However, a series of three bogeys on the 15th, 16th, and 17th holes threatened to derail his momentum.Undeterred, Nakajima produced a stunning drive and a well-calculated shot from the fairway on the testing 17th hole, securing a birdie to restore his confidence. On the final hole, he drained an 'eagle-putt' from about 20 feet to finish at an impressive -14.Other notable Indian performances included Karandeep Kochhar (138), Manu Gandas (138), Gaganjeet Bhullar (139), Rashid Khan (139), and Jairaj Singh Sandhu (142).