The Marshall Islands’ first national soccer team discovers what “home” can mean—on a field in Arkansas.
Sports
The Top 5 Longreads of the Week
In this edition: the jaws of history; war and piece(s); the last day of camp; stay a while; picture me rollin’.
Turfin’ Safari
“Growing grass for the 2026 World Cup has been a years-long science project. Here’s how it’s going, from B.C. to Tennessee.”
Between the Sheets at the College Excel Championships
“One of the most unusual — and fun — events in college sports is a high-stakes spreadsheeting competition in Las Vegas.”
This Texas Teenager Is One of the World’s Most Feared Fighters. Don’t Expect Her to Talk About It.
“Not yet twenty, Helena Crevar is one of the most feared fighters in martial arts. What’s her secret?”
The Olympics Are Ditching PFAS Waxes—and the ‘Ridiculous’ Speed They Gave Skiers
“After years of concern over so-called “fluoro” waxes, the Milan Cortina Games will be the first Olympics without them.”
Why Did the Rubber Chicken Cross the Road?
“At 38, I began to feel the creep of the millennial midlife crisis. So I decided to break the strangest world record I could find.”
Why the Spirit of WWE Legend Eddie Guerrero Lives On
“What began as a childhood wonder with masked men who looked like they could fly around the ring, evolved into a focus on Eddie. During a time when I lived in what felt like different worlds, he reminded me of home.”
