The year 2016 was an exciting and eventful one for sports enthusiasts worldwide. From the Olympics in Rio, to the emergence of new stars in various disciplines, to thrilling championship games, this year had it all. Here are some of the most noteworthy moments and accomplishments in the world of sports in 2016.
Rio Olympics:
The 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, were a major highlight of the year. Over 11,000 athletes from around the globe competed in 28 sports, with new records and personal bests set across the board. Usain Bolt continued his reign as the fastest man in the world, winning gold in both the 100m and 200m races. American swimmer Michael Phelps picked up four gold medals, bringing his Olympic total to a record 23. Simone Biles dominated in gymnastics, taking home four gold medals and one bronze.
Emerging Stars:
Several young athletes burst onto the scene in 2016, making their mark on their respective sports. In tennis, Swiss player Belinda Bencic, at just 19 years old, won two titles and reached the top ten in the world rankings before injuries derailed her season. In basketball, Canadian Andrew Wiggins was named the NBA's Rookie of the Year, while Slovenian Luka Dončić led Real Madrid to the EuroLeague title at age 17. On the soccer pitch, French forward Antoine Griezmann inspired Atletico Madrid's run to the UEFA Champions League final and helped lead France to the Euro 2016 final.
Championship Moments:
There were plenty of thrilling championship games in 2016, with many coming down to the wire. The Cleveland Cavaliers made history by winning the NBA championship, becoming the first team to overcome a 3-1 deficit in the Finals. The Chicago Cubs broke a 108-year curse by winning the World Series, in an epic Game 7 that went to extra innings. In soccer, Portugal stunned host nation France to win their first major international trophy, the Euro 2016 tournament.
Controversies:
As with any year, there were also controversies and scandals in the world of sports in 2016. Russian athletes were banned from competing in the Olympics due to allegations of state-sponsored doping, although some were allowed to compete under a neutral flag. NFL player Colin Kaepernick sparked debate and protests by kneeling during the national anthem before games, in protest of racial injustice and police brutality. Tennis saw one of its biggest stars, Maria Sharapova, suspended for 15 months after failing a drug test at the Australian Open.
Overall, the year 2016 was a memorable one for sports fans, with plenty of highs and lows. From historic wins and new stars emerging, to controversies and scandals, the year had it all. Here's looking forward to another year of unforgettable moments in the world of sports.