The year 2024 was one to remember, filled with incredible achievements from athletes across the globe. From the excitement of the Summer Olympics to record-breaking moments in professional sports, athletes pushed the limits of what’s possible this year. Simone Biles secured four gold medals, Katie Ledecky increased her Olympic gold total to nine, and Noah Lyles dominated the 100m sprint. Beyond the Olympics, remarkable achievements included Shohei Ohtani redefining baseball with historic stats as both a pitcher and hitter. Events like the UEFA Euro, FIFA Women’s World Cup, and thrilling Formula 1 races brought even more unforgettable moments to the world of Sports.
The Big Events
Summer Olympics 2024
Held in Paris, France, the 2024 Summer Olympics brought top-tier Athletes from all over the world to compete. Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone shattered her own 400m hurdles record for the sixth time, winning gold and bringing her total to four Olympic gold medals. Additionally, new Sports, including break dancing, kayak cross, skateboarding, and Sports climbing, made their Olympic debuts, adding fresh excitement to the Games.
FIFA U-20 World Cups
In the FIFA Women’s U-20 World Cups, The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea triumphed over Japan 1-0, with Chloe II-son’s making the winning goal in the 15th minute.
Tennis Grand Slams and Tour de France
This year’s Tennis Grand Slams witnessed standout performances, including Barbora Krejcikova’s second Grand Slam singles victory over Jasmine Paolini. In cycling, the Tour de France victory went to Tadej Pogacar, winning with a margin of 6 minutes and 17 seconds.
Records That Were Broken
Individual Records
- Bobby Finke set a new world record in the men’s 1500m freestyle, claiming his third Olympic gold medal.
- Mondo Duplantis shattered his own indoor pole vault record once again, reaching 6.25 meters.
- Simone Biles became the first gymnast to win 30 world championship medals and achieved her fifth gold in women’s floor exercise.
- Shohei Ohtani: Ohtani made history as the first MLB player with 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season, broke the Dodgers’ single-season home run record (50), and became the career home run leader for Asian-born players (219), cementing his dual-threat dominance.
- Caitlin Clark: In her WNBArookie season, Clark set records for single-season assists (337), single-game assists (19), and three-pointers made (122), becoming the first rookie to record a triple-double and leading the Indiana Fever to franchise highs in points and assists scored or assisted. She was also the fastest player to reach 500 points and 200 assists.
Team Records
- Christoper Bailey, Vernon Norwood, Bryce Deadmon, and Rai Benjamin from the United States broke the 4×400 meter relay record at the Paris 2024 Olympics. They set a new Olympic record with a time of 2:54.43, surpassing the previous record set in 2008.
- The U.S. women’s Team set a new world record for the Women’s 4×100-Meter Medley Relay with a time of 3:49.62, breaking the previous record by almost a second.
Awards and Recognition
- Jude Bellingham won the Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year Award after his goal won El Clasico for Real Madrid.
- Aitana Bonmatí won the Award for Sportswoman of the Year.
- Simone Biles won the Comeback of the Year Award after taking a break from gymnastics for two years.
- Caitlin Clark was unanimously named WNBA Rookie of the Year.
The Ups and Downs – Injuries, Comebacks, and In Memoriams
In 2024, athletes faced both triumphs and challenges. Kylian Mbappé overcame a Bicep Femoris injury in his left leg and was set to return for UEFA Euro. Serena Williams made a powerful comeback at the Australian Open despite battling chronic migraines and a pulmonary embolism. Honoring the legends who are no longer with us, the Sports community remembered Kobe Bryant on the anniversary of his death and mourned the passing of Lisa Leslie, a WNBA legend.
Emerging Trends and Future Prospects
Elevating Attention on Women’s Sports
In 2024, major Sports leagues integrated AI-driven analytics to enhance player training and injury prevention. The NBA and other leagues utilized advanced data tracking to improve player performance and safety.
Sustainability in Sports
Sports organizations also made strides toward sustainability, adopting eco-friendly practices such as solar-powered venues and using environmentally-friendly materials in Sports uniforms, demonstrating their commitment to reducing their environmental impact.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Exciting events are on the horizon for 2025, including the Rugby World Cup in France, where New Zealand, South Africa, and England will vie for the championship title. Formula 1 promises another thrilling season with Max Verstappen defending his title. Additionally, the Women’s Football World Cup in Australia and New Zealand will see teams like Germany, England, and Brazil in fierce competition.
2024 was a year that showcased the remarkable resilience and talent of Athletes worldwide. Here at O2 Sports Insurance, we share in the passion that unites Athletes and fans alike. Looking forward to 2025, we’re here to provide the coverage that keeps Teams, Leagues, and organizations properly insured. In need of Insurance for the 2025 seasons? Visit our website to apply for a free quote and be prepared for whatever the new year brings!