Former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has returned to the United Kingdom after being involved in a fatal road accident in Nigeria that claimed the lives of two of his close friends, as both families and authorities take steps toward remembrance and accountability.

The 36-year-old boxer was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck on a major expressway near Lagos on Monday. The crash resulted in the deaths of Joshua’s close friends and long-time team members, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele, a loss that has sent shockwaves through Joshua’s inner circle and the wider boxing community.

Following the accident, Joshua was taken to hospital for treatment and observation. He was discharged on Wednesday after doctors confirmed his condition was stable, allowing him to begin the journey back to the UK to be with family, friends and supporters during a difficult period.

Funeral arrangements for Ghami and Ayodele have now been confirmed, with services set to take place on Sunday at a mosque in London. Friends, relatives and members of the sporting community are expected to attend, offering an opportunity to honour the lives and contributions of the two men, who were widely regarded as central figures in Joshua’s professional and personal life.

In Nigeria, legal proceedings connected to the crash are underway. The driver of the vehicle, 46-year-old Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, appeared before the Sagamu Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

Kayode was granted bail in the sum of five million naira (£2,578) and has been remanded pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions. The case has been adjourned until 20 January, giving investigators additional time to complete inquiries and ensuring the judicial process continues in an orderly manner.

Wales international Brennan Johnson has spoken enthusiastically about his move to Crystal Palace, describing the transfer as an exciting step in his career after completing a £35m deal that sets a new club record for the Eagles.

Palace moved decisively to secure the 24-year-old forward, despite strong interest from Bournemouth, who had identified Johnson as a potential replacement should Antoine Semenyo complete a move to Manchester City. However, following productive discussions with Palace manager Oliver Glasner on Thursday, Johnson was convinced that Selhurst Park was the right destination for his next chapter.

“I’m really excited and I’m really happy,” Johnson said after the move was confirmed. “Crystal Palace are such a great club, one that I’ve always admired. It feels like a great time for me to be here and to join the journey that this club is on. I’m super excited about what lies ahead.”

The transfer eclipses Palace’s previous record signing of Liverpool striker Christian Benteke, who joined the club for £27m in 2016, underlining the club’s ambition and belief in Johnson’s ability to make an immediate and long-term impact.

Johnson arrives in south London with significant Premier League and European experience. He joined Tottenham Hotspur from Nottingham Forest in 2023 in a £47.5m deal and went on to play a key role during his time in north London. Most notably, he scored the decisive goal that helped Spurs end a 17-year wait for silverware, sealing Europa League success last season and further enhancing his reputation as a player for big moments.

For Crystal Palace, Johnson’s signing represents both a statement of intent and a strategic addition to Glasner’s evolving squad. His pace, directness, and eye for goal are expected to add a new dimension to Palace’s attack as the club looks to build on recent progress and continue its upward trajectory.

Venus Williams is set to make history at the Australian Open after being awarded a wildcard entry into the women’s main draw, becoming the oldest female player ever to compete at the tournament at the age of 45.

The seven-time Grand Slam champion received the final women’s wildcard for the Australian Open, which begins on 18 January, marking another remarkable milestone in a career defined by longevity, resilience and repeated reinvention. Williams’ return to Melbourne Park adds significant star power and experience to the season’s first Grand Slam.

Williams last competed at the Australian Open in 2021, where she reached the second round before being beaten by Italy’s Sara Errani. Speaking after the wildcard announcement, the American expressed her appreciation for the opportunity to return to a venue that has played an important role in her career.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to return to a place that has meant so much to my career,” Williams said, highlighting her enduring connection to the tournament and her continued passion for competing at the highest level.

By taking her place in the main draw, Williams will surpass the previous age record held by Japan’s Kimiko Date, who was 44 when she competed at the Australian Open in 2015. The achievement further underlines Williams’ status as one of the sport’s most enduring and influential figures.

In addition to the Australian Open, Williams has also accepted a wildcard for the Hobart International, a warm-up event starting on 12 January. The tournament will also feature Britain’s Emma Raducanu, setting up an intriguing mix of experience and emerging talent ahead of the Melbourne Grand Slam.

Williams has continued to demonstrate her competitive spirit in recent seasons. She returned to the US Open in New York last year, becoming the third-oldest woman to compete at the tournament in the Open era. Although she was defeated in the first round by Czech player Karolina Muchova, the match once again showcased her determination to compete against the world’s best.