NEW YORK (AP) — There’s been a change in vaccination rules for the U.S. Open, just days before the tennis tournament begins. Players and their team members don’t need to be vaccinated for COVID-19 — but now, spectators do. Others such as chair umpires, ball kids and members of the media also need to show proof of vaccination. As recently as Wednesday, the U.S. Tennis Association said fans wouldn’t need to be vaccinated. But, prompted by the New York mayor’s office, the USTA did an about-face, deciding yesterday to make it mandatory for fans over 12 years old entering the grounds to show proof they’ve received one dose. The tournament starts Monday.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee coach Mike Vrabel (VRAY’-bul) will miss the Titans’ preseason finale a week after testing positive for COVID-19. Two other coaches and another player also have joined the protocols as the team’s outbreak grows. The Titans announced today that special teams coach Craig Aukerman, who missed a couple of practices under the NFL’s COVID-19 protocols, will be back for tonight’s game with Chicago. Wide receiver coach Rob Moore and offensive line assistant Jason Houghtaling will miss the game because of the virus protocols. Rookie wide receiver Racey McMath also was placed on the reserve/COVID-19 list today. He’s the seventh player currently on the list.

UNDATED (AP) — NBA referees will all be vaccinated against the coronavirus this season. The NBA announced today that it has struck a deal with the National Basketball Referees Association on that requirement. Part of the referees’ agreement with the NBA also says that those working games will receive booster shots once they become recommended. The vote by the referees on the issue took place earlier this week. The deal was announced a day after the league told teams anyone who works in close proximity of players and referees must be vaccinated.

CLEVELAND (AP) — The Cleveland Indians have sent struggling reliever James Karinchak to Triple-A Columbus after he failed to retire a batter and got the loss Friday night against Boston. Karinchak came in with a 3-1 lead but allowed a walk and a single before Jonathan Araúz hit a three-run homer. Karinchak struck out 68 in 39 1/3 innings and had a 2.52 ERA before the All-Star break but his numbers have declined since with an 8.40 ERA and nine strikeouts in 15 innings. First baseman Bobby Bradley was activated from the 10-day injured list.

SOUTH WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. (AP) — Cooper Oden struck out six and allowed two runs over five innings as Ohio hung on to beat South Dakota 5-2 in a semifinal at the Little League World Series. The West Side Little League squad from Hamilton, Ohio, became the first team from the state to reach the LLWS championship game. Ohio will play tomorrow against the winner of today’s semifinal between Michigan and Hawaii.

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