Throughout 2024, we’ve had the Olympic Games in Paris, the European Football Championships in Germany and countless other sporting events that have entertained us. So it’s time to take a look back at the dramatic, history-defining sporting moments of the year.
Simone Biles’ Triumphant Return to the Olympics
The Paris 2024 Summer Olympics became the stage for one of the most heartwarming comebacks in sports history. Simone Biles, the gymnastics icon, returned to the Olympic arena after a hiatus following her withdrawal during the Tokyo Games in 2021.
This year, she not only competed but dominated, winning three gold medals and one silver. Her balance beam routine, which included a never-before-seen dismount, earned her a perfect score—a first in Olympic gymnastics history. Biles’ resilience and brilliance reaffirmed her status as the greatest gymnast of all time, surpassing the most Olympic medals won by an American gymnast.
Spain Wins the UEFA European Championships in Dramatic Fashion
Spain’s men’s football team clinched the UEFA European Championship title, defeating England in the final held at Berlin’s Olympiastadion, marking a significant achievement in their football history. Mikel Oyarzabal’s late goal broke English hearts as La Roja won 2-1 to record their first major trophy under manager Luis de la Fuente. Youngster Lamine Yamal stole the show all tournament, providing crucial match-winning moments and recording the most assists of any player.
Novak Djokovic Wins Olympic Gold
At the Paris Olympics, Novak Djokovic finally captured the elusive Olympic gold medal, defeating Spanish superstar Carlos Alcaraz in the final. Djokovic’s victory was particularly significant as it came after multiple near-misses in past Olympics, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest tennis players in history. The win was emblematic of Djokovic’s relentless pursuit of perfection and capped a remarkable year for the Serbian legend, who also continued to dominate the ATP circuit.
Léon Marchand Dominates in Swimming
Léon Marchand was the standout athlete in the pool at the Paris Olympics, winning four gold medals in individual events: the 200m and 400m individual medleys, 200m butterfly, and 200m breaststroke.
Competing in front of a raucous home crowd, Marchand displayed versatility and endurance rarely seen in swimming, and his dominance made him a national hero in France. His achievements drew comparisons to legends like Michael Phelps.
Julien Alfred’s Historic 100m Victory
Julien Alfred’s electrifying win in the women’s 100m sprint was a groundbreaking moment for Saint Lucia, as she brought home the country’s first-ever Olympic gold medal. Running a blistering 10.72 seconds, she stunned a field of heavy favourites and became an icon in her home country. Her victory was celebrated globally as a symbol of the growing diversity in sprinting’s elite ranks.
India’s T20 World Cup Win
India ended an 11-year ICC trophy drought by winning the T20 World Cup, defeating South Africa in a nail-biting final. Held in the United States, the tournament highlighted India’s depth of talent, with key contributions from Virat Kohli and emerging star Tilak Varma.
The final was a high-stakes thriller, and India’s victory was celebrated as a moment of resurgence for Indian cricket on the global stage.
Max Verstappen’s Fourth Formula 1 Title
Max Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship in dominant fashion, continuing his unparalleled run of success with Red Bull Racing. Verstappen’s ability to extract maximum performance from his car, combined with his consistency, set him apart from his rivals.
His 2024 season included multiple record-breaking performances, including the longest winning streak in Formula 1 history, further cementing his place among the all-time greats of the sport.
Armand Duplantis Breaks Records
Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis continued to rewrite the record books in 2024. He broke his own world record multiple times, with his most remarkable achievement being a 6.26-meter clearance at the Silesia Diamond League.
Duplantis’ dominance in pole vaulting has made him one of the most recognisable faces in athletics, as he consistently pushes the boundaries of human capability.
Luke Littler Becomes Youngest World Darts Champion
At just 17 years old, Luke Littler made history by becoming the youngest world darts champion. He defeated Michael van Gerwen 7-3 at the Alexandra Palace in London, earning a £500,000 prize.
Littler’s journey from playing darts as a toddler to achieving this milestone has been remarkable, and his victory has revitalised interest in the sport.
United States Tops Medal Table Amidst Historic Tie
The United States topped the medal table for the fourth consecutive Summer Games, securing 40 golds and 126 total medals. Notably, China tied with the U.S. in gold medals (40) but had fewer silver medals, leading to their second-place finish. This was the first time a gold medal tie among the two most successful nations occurred in Summer Olympic history.
Andy Murray’s Emotional Farewell
At Wimbledon, former world No. 1 Andy Murray received a heartfelt send-off after announcing his retirement from professional tennis. The two-time Wimbledon champion’s departure was met with standing ovations, celebrating his contributions to British tennis.
Shohei Ohtani’s Historic MLB Season
Japanese sensation Shohei Ohtani made history in Major League Baseball by becoming the first player to record 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. His exceptional two-way play earned him the National League MVP unanimously, and he led his team to a World Series victory in his first postseason appearance.
The year 2024 delivered a treasure trove of unforgettable sporting moments that inspired, united, and amazed fans worldwide. From record-breaking feats at the Paris Olympics to triumphant comebacks and historic firsts, athletes showcased unparalleled skill, resilience, and passion.
Legends like Lionel Messi and Simone Biles added new chapters to their legacies while rising stars like Léon Marchand and Jannik Sinner claimed the spotlight. Iconic team victories, such as India’s T20 World Cup and Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, brought nations together in celebration.
As 2024 fades, these moments will remain etched in history, a testament to the magic of sports. As 2025 arrives, let’s hope that many more athletes can rise to their potential and create history.
