Sport is a powerful arena for drama, passion and unforgettable moments. In 2021, the sports world once again witnessed many breathtaking occasions that brought fans together and created historic achievements. The pandemic imposed certain limitations, but athletes and teams still managed to reach new heights and offer unforgettable experiences. From mighty comebacks to broken records and unexpected triumphs, here are ten memorable sporting moments from 2021 that will live on in the annals of sport.
Simon Biles and the Tokyo Olympics
As the most decorated gymnast in World Cup history, expectations for Simone Biles were sky high ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. But during the Games, Biles made a brave decision that came to define the sports year. She chose to withdraw from several competitions to take care of her mental health. Her honesty and strength inspired many and put an important focus on the mental well-being of athletes.
Liverpool’s battle for Champions League place
Football team Liverpool faced a tough challenge as they chased a place in next season’s Champions League. With a string of impressive wins and an incredible play-off performance, they managed to secure top spot in the Premier League. Alisson Becker’s sensational header, an unlikely contribution from a goalkeeper, was one of the most exciting moments of the football year.
Christian Eriksen’s terrifying collapse
One of the most touching events took place during the European Football Championship when Danish player Christian Eriksen suddenly collapsed on the pitch due to a cardiac arrest. Thanks to the quick intervention of medical staff and the protection of his teammates around him, he was later able to recover. The incident sparked a wave of support across the world and reminded us all of the transience of top sport.
Yulimar Rojas breaks the world record in three steps
Venezuelan Yulimar Rojas made history when she broke the 26-year-old world record in the women’s triple jump during the Tokyo Olympics. With a jump of 15.67 meters, she not only won the gold medal but also broke Inessa Kravet’s record from 1995. Roja’s performance was one of the most dominant of the Games.
Novak Djokovic’s historic Grand Slam chase
Tennis player Novak Djokovic stood on the threshold of tennis’ noble Grand Slam when he won the Australian Open, French Open and Wimbledon consecutively in 2021. In the last tournament, the US Open, fans and experts dreamed of the possibility of witnessing a player win all four major championship tournaments in the same year. Although Djokovic ultimately lost in the final, his pursuit of the Grand Slam was an exciting trajectory to follow.
Emma Raducanu Olympic sensation
One of the most surprising and heartwarming moments of the sporting year was when 18-year-old British wildcard player Emma Raducanu went from being a relatively unknown player to winning the US Open without dropping a single set. Raducanu’s victory streak became a source of inspiration and proof that anything is possible in sports.
Italian football successes
Italy showed its class and strength at the 2021 European Football Championship. The team, which did not even qualify for the 2018 World Cup, underwent a stunning transformation and was crowned European champions after a dramatic final against England. The match, which took place at Wembley Stadium, went to a penalty shoot-out where Italy triumphed.
Ariarne Titmus breaks Katie Ledecky’s dominance
Swimming offered some of the most memorable moments of the Tokyo Olympics. Of particular note was when Australia’s Ariarne Titmus won the 400m freestyle over Olympic champion and world record holder Katie Ledecky of the USA. This was one of the biggest surprises in the swimming pool and a new star was born.
Max Verstappen defeats Lewis Hamilton in F1
The Formula 1 season was one of the most riveting in years, with a battle for the world title going down to the final race in Abu Dhabi. Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton delivered a gas-hugging finale with Verstappen ultimately taking home his first championship. Surrounded by controversy and drama, it was one of the hottest sports debates of the year.
Phil Mickelson’s historic PGA Championship win
In the world of golf, Phil Mickelson made headlines when, at the age of 50, he became the oldest player ever to win a major by securing the PGA Championship title. His feat defied all norms and expectations and showed that age is just a number when it comes to talent and willpower. In 2021, these memorable moments contributed to an unforgettable sporting calendar. A mix of triumphs, humanity and surprises reminded us that inspiration and excitement in the world of sports knows no bounds. These events will not only remain in the history books of the sport, but also in the hearts and memories of fans all over the world.
common questions
What was the most unexpected moment in the world of sports in 2021?
What many considered the most unexpected moment was when 18-year-old Emma Raducanu won the US Open. She went from being a relative unknown to becoming a Grand Slam champion without losing a single set during the tournament.
How did the pandemic affect sporting events in 2021?
The pandemic continued to affect sporting events in 2021, with restrictions on spectator attendance and several canceled or postponed events. However, athletes and organizations adapted and found ways to conduct competitions safely, often without or with very limited audiences.
Why was Simone Biles decision during the Tokyo Olympics so significant?
Simone Biles’ decision to withdraw from competition during the Tokyo Olympics to take care of her mental health marked an important turning point in sports history. It raised awareness of the importance of mental health in athletes and showed that it’s okay to not feel well and need a break.
Which sports moment from 2021 showed the greatest sportsmanship?
Christian Eriksen’s collapse during the European Football Championship and the immediate help he received from his team and medical staff shows the sportsmanship and community in the sporting world. It reminded spectators worldwide of the unity and solidarity of sports in critical moments.
How historic was Max Verstappen’s win in Formula 1?
Max Verstappen’s victory was historic as he broke Lewis Hamilton’s four-year winning streak and secured his first world title after a dramatic season and final race filled with controversy.
At what age did Phil Mickelson win the PGA Championship and why was it so significant?
Phil Mickelson won the PGA Championship at the age of 50, making him the oldest player ever to win a golf major. It was remarkable because it challenged the notion that top athletes must be young and illustrated that experience and skill can bridge age differences.
What record did Yulimar Rojas break during the Tokyo Olympics?
Yulimar Rojas broke the 26-year-old women’s three-step world record previously held by Inessa Kravets since 1995. Rojas recorded a jump of 15.67 meters, which took her past the previous record and earned her an Olympic gold medal.