2024 was filled with exciting sporting moments, including a thrilling men’s tournament 100 meters final at the Paris Olympics. Fans witnessed a historic moment where Simone Bilesthe gymnastics legend, made a triumphant return. We also celebrated Shohei OhtaniIt was a remarkable achievement as he became the first member of baseball’s 50-50 club.
Sports fans around the world are delighted with the enthusiasm that the 2025 sporting year will generate. But until then, let’s take a look back at the great sporting moments that marked 2024.
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Sporting moments that marked 2024
The NCAA Women’s Championship Game
Whether you’re a fan of women’s basketball or not, you’ve probably heard the name Caitlin Clark. She had an outstanding college career with Iowa Hawk Eyewinning numerous awards and honors, including honors as the all-time record holder in Division I women’s basketball. Although Iowa fell short against South Carolina, losing 87-75 in the championship game, this was only the beginning for Clark.
Clark then took the WNBA by storm and her record-breaking career followed her to the pros, winning the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year.
Simone Biles’ performance at the Paris Olympics
Simone Biles is widely considered one of the greatest gymnasts of all time, a fact that was clearly demonstrated during the 2024 Paris Olympics. After overcoming the “twisties,” a mental challenge that causes gymnasts to lose control of their bodies in flight, Biles made an incredible comeback. Her journey highlighted the importance of mental health and prioritizing yourself. She returns to the competition stronger than ever in Paris.
At 27, Biles now has a total of 11 Olympic medals, including seven gold, two silver and two bronze, after adding four new medals from the Paris Olympics.
Mike Tyson returns to the ring to fight Jake Paul
Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, 58, took to the ring at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, in front of a packed house on November 15. He faced Jake Paul, a former YouTuber turned boxer, who won the match by unanimous decision after eight rounds. This historic boxing event was the first to be broadcast live on the streaming service Netflix.
Noah Lyles wins the men’s 100 meters
American Noah Lyles proved he is the fastest man in the world at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Lyles won the United States’ first Olympic gold medal in the men’s 100 meters since Justin Gatlin at the 2004 Athens Olympics, claiming victory in a thrilling photo finish with a time of 9.79 seconds. He was neck and neck with Jamaican Kishane Thompson, who also recorded a time of 9.79 seconds. The American team also won the bronze medal, with Fred Kerley finishing third in 9.81 seconds.
Shohei Ohtani becomes first 50/50 player
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani, originally from Japan, had a phenomenal year after signing a $700 million contract. He became the first 50/50 player in baseball history by hitting 54 home runs and stealing 59 bases. Ohtani played a crucial role in helping the Dodgers defeat Aaron Judge and the New York Yankees to win the 2024 World Series, the Dodgers’ eighth national title.
Ohtani ended 2024 on a high note after winning his third MVP.