President George Bush is bringing presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain into negotiations on the proposed $700bn rescue of Wall Street.

Two-time US Open champion Venus Williams remained in contention for a third title after coming from a set down to beat third seed Jelena Jankovic 4-6 6-1 7-6 (7-4) to advance to the semi-finals at Flushing Meadows.

AMERICAN Andy Roddick and defending champion Roger Federer will meet in the Australian Open semi-final after enjoying straightforward victories at Melbourne Park.

DEFENDING champion Amelie Mauresmo’s surprise defeat to Czech youngster Lucie Safarova capped off a day of shocks in the fourth round of the Australian Open in Melbourne.

Defending champion Amelie Mauresmo's surprise defeat to Czech youngster Lucie Safarova capped off a day of shocks in the fourth round of the Australian Open in Melbourne today.

Social Democratic Party chairman Franz Muentefering will serve as vice-chancellor and labour minister in a coalition government under conservative Chancellor-designate Angela Merkel, party officials said today.

Former champion Justine Henin-Hardenne cruised into the third round of the French Open today with a straightforward victory over Spain’s Virginia Ruano Pascual.