After the Soviet collapse, Ukraine existed as a poor backwater in Russia’s orbit, causing no trouble for anyone — except itself, due to world-beating corruption — until the USA started a push to include it in NATO.

Source: https://www.lewrockwell.com/2023/11/james-howard-kunstler/the-four-wars/

Back then, Curry benefitted from a No 2 option who was arguably the No 1 (the eventual NBA finals MVP Kevin Durant); these days, LeBron shares the load with the world-beating Anthony Davis with a fresh and surprisingly deep supporting cast to buoy them.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2023/may/13/lebron-james-stephen-curry-rivalry-lakers-warriors

It is far from world-beating.

Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/cricket/cricket-world-cup-harry-brook-england-india-b2416821.html

She has been a central part of the world-beating GB Para-Rowing Team, who have won 50 per cent of the gold medals awarded in Paralympic rowing since its introduction in 2008.

Source: https://www.bromsgroveadvertiser.co.uk/sport/23538292.lauren-rowles-aiming-third-paralympic-gold-next-year/?ref=rss

Squeeze,” she intoned calmly, sounding more like a meditation master than a world-beating competitor.

Source: https://www.boston.com/travel/new-england-travel/2023/03/07/skiing-vermont-craftsbury-outdoor-center/