Best sports on TV and stream this weekend (June 23-26, 2023)
The sporting season is getting back on track after a slew of finals in recent weeks, with plenty of sports getting towards the tasty parts of the seasons. After Novak Djokovic won the French Open a couple weeks ago (his 23rd Grand Slam title), the tennis tour moves to the grass season, an automatic fan favorite for all involved. Add this to the start of the Gold Cup in soccer, and we really have a treat in store this summer. Check out our list of the top matchups coming up this weekend.
This Weekend's TV & Streaming Schedule:
ATP Tour: Cinch Championship (June 19th-26th)
The Queen's Club Championships enters a thrilling week, promising an enthralling display of skill and strategy on the grass courts. A significant lead-up to Wimbledon, this event is known for attracting top-tier tennis talents.
World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz is the headliner, eager to claim his first Queen's title. He faces stiff competition, not least from rising star Holger Rune, who is making waves with his unpredictable style of play.
Meanwhile, home favorite Cameron Norrie returns, hoping to revive his formidable form from past seasons. British hopes also rested on Andy Murray, now fit after a series of injuries, but he lost in the first round after winnings two successive Challenger tournaments on grass in the last month.
With an intriguing mix of seasoned champions and up-and-coming contenders, spectators are assured of a spectacular week of tennis. The drama is sure to be high at the Queen's Club Championships, where every volley, every ace, and every drop shot can make the difference between triumph and despair.
Gold Cup: USA vs. Jamaica (June 24th)
This weekend brings a clash of titans in the Gold Cup, as USA square off against Jamaica in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Both teams, with a rich history in the tournament, are eager to establish dominance in the group stage.
The USA, with a mix of seasoned veterans and fresh talents, come into this game with a point to prove. Coach Gregg Berhalter will be expecting a robust performance from his squad, particularly from emerging star Giovanni Reyna, whose agility and playmaking skills have been impressive.
On the other hand, Jamaica, with their blistering pace and physical prowess, are no pushovers. Spearheaded by the creative genius Leon Bailey, the Reggae Boyz will be seeking to exploit any gaps in the American defense.
The stakes are high as both teams vie for a commanding position in the tournament. Will the USA's tactical astuteness outmatch Jamaica's sheer power and speed? Or will the Reggae Boyz dance to a victory against their formidable opponents?
UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Topuria (June 17th)
As UFC Fight Night approaches this weekend, fans are primed for a blockbuster event showcasing the best of mixed martial arts. A blend of raw power, unmatched skill, and tactical mastery will be on display in the octagon as fighters aim to assert their dominance.
The highlight of the night is the eagerly anticipated main event between dynamic featherweight contenders. Hard-hitting Josh Emmett brings his relentless pace and striking accuracy, prepared to face the explosive power and formidable wrestling prowess of Ilia Topuria.
In the co-main event, rising star Amanda Ribas, 11-3 in her professional career, steps up against the exciting Maycee Barber in a thrilling flyweight clash. Ribas’s grappling expertise will be tested against Barber’s well-rounded skillset, promising a closely contested battle.
Add a undercard filled with hungry, up-and-coming fighters, and UFC Fight Night is set to deliver high-octane, action-packed bouts.
MLB: Mets @ Phillies (June 23rd-25th)
This upcoming weekend in Major League Baseball promises an electrifying East Coast rivalry as the Philadelphia Phillies square off against the New York Mets in a three-game series.
The Phillies, who have shown offensive strength this season with a powerhouse lineup including the likes of Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber, aim to disrupt the Mets' current momentum. The Mets, bolstered by Pete Alonso's red-hot bat and Justin Verlander’s sterling pitching performances, are looking to extend their dominance atop the NL East.
Both teams have an intense history, and with each one vying for divisional supremacy, expect nothing short of fierce competition. Key battles will no doubt unfold on the pitcher's mound, with the Phillies' Aaron Nola aiming to tame his former team and Verlander looking to add another stellar performance to his resume. While the outcome is uncertain, the excitement is guaranteed.
Author: Dan Anderson