In the vast majority of sports, the biggest star via popularity is also that sport's best player. Tom Brady in the NFL, LeBron James in the NBA, etc.
Over 700m set to watch World Cup final
The 22 players representing Holland and Spain in tonight's World Cup final will be playing before an estimated worldwide audience of 700 million
FIFA puts pressure on Nelson Mandela to attend World Cup final
FIFA is putting pressure on Nelson Mandela to attend the World Cup final despite the fact that he is still mourning his great-grandaughter's death
How do you beat Spain? Hit Casillas where it hurts
The only way to beat Spain is by adopting dirty tactics - in other words, target Iker Casillas' girlfriend
Economist report: Sceptical America is lagging behind on gambling
The Economist has launched a special report into gambling this month, revealing the "profound and multilayered American scepticism of online gambling"
Fifa hints at goal-line U-turn after bad day in the posh seats
Goal-line technology is back on the agenda after Fifa revealed this World Cup is set to be the last tournament under the existing refereeing system
Probability launches first iPhone and iPod Touch real money games
Mobile gambling games specialist Probability has launched its first games specifically designed for the iPhone and iPod Touch
PartyGaming still on the prowl for US partner
PartyGaming is still on the prowl for US partner and poised to strike a new deal in France
Punter takes on bookies with Hun-believable bet
A William Hill telephone client has staked the largest ever bet on the World Cup, gambling €500,000 on Germany to beat Spain in tonight's semi-final