2024’s Top 10 International Sporting Events: A Year to Remember!
Hey sports fans! 🏆 The year 2024 was packed with thrilling moments and record-breaking performances. Let’s dive into the top 10 international sports events that had us all cheering! 🎉
1. Paris Olympics Set Sail on the Seine 🚣♀️
On July 26th, under rainy skies, 85 boats carrying athletes from 205 countries sailed right into the heart of Paris! 🇫🇷 Over 320,000 excited spectators lined both shores of the River Seine to welcome the world to the Olympic spotlight. What an unforgettable opening ceremony! 🌟
2. The First Olympic Esports Games Announced 🎮
Gaming fans, rejoice! 🎉 On July 12th, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) teamed up with Saudi Arabia to announce the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2025. This marks a huge step for esports on the global stage! 🕹️
3. Future Hosts for the Olympics and World Cup 🌍
Big announcements were made on July 24th! 🗓️ The French Alps will host the 2030 Winter Olympics ❄️, and Salt Lake City in the USA will welcome athletes in 2034. Plus, on December 11th, FIFA revealed that Morocco, Portugal, and Spain will co-host the 2030 World Cup, while Saudi Arabia will host in 2034! ⚽
4. A New Chapter for the IOC ✨
On August 11th, IOC President Thomas Bach announced he wouldn’t change the rules to stay in office. He believes the Olympics need fresh leadership. Thank you for your service, Mr. Bach! 🙌
5. Standing Up for Fair Play 🕊️
On August 7th, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) responded to claims that some athletes were allowed to compete despite positive tests. WADA emphasized the importance of protecting athletes and keeping sports clean. 🏅
6. Record-Breaking Athletes 🌟
History was made on July 7th when Ukraine’s Yaroslava Mahuchikh jumped an incredible 2.10 meters at a meet in Paris, breaking a 37-year-old high jump record! 🥇 Then, on October 13th, Kenya’s Ruth Chepngetich ran the Chicago Marathon in just 2 hours, 9 minutes, and 56 seconds, smashing the world record by almost 2 minutes! 🏃♀️
7. Farewell to a Tennis Legend 🎾
On October 10th, Rafael Nadal announced that 2024 would be his final season due to injuries. 😢 The “King of Clay” played his last match on November 19th during Spain’s Davis Cup quarterfinal. He leaves the sport with an amazing 22 Grand Slam titles. Thank you, Rafa! 👏
8. Spain’s Soccer Triumphs ⚽
Spain had a phenomenal year! 🇪🇸 On July 14th, they defeated England 2-1 in the Euro 2024 final, with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring a thrilling goal in the 86th minute! 😱 Later, on October 28th, midfielder Rodri won the prestigious Ballon d’Or, beating out Vinicius Jr and Jude Bellingham! 🏆
9. Superhuman Feats in Athletics 🏋️
Swedish pole vaulter Armand Duplantis did it again! 🙌 On August 26th, he cleared 6.26 meters at the Diamond League in Poland, breaking his own world record for the third time this season! 🚀
10. LeBron James Makes History 🏀
Basketball fans were in awe on March 3rd when LeBron James scored his 40,000th career point! 🌟 At 39 years old, he became the first player in NBA history to reach this incredible milestone. Go, LeBron! 👑
What a year it’s been! Which moment was your favorite? Share with us below! 💬
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
