As the year ends, let’s look back at the standout sports events of the season. It’s been an amazing year. This season has been amazing. It saw world records broken and unforgettable acts of skill and grit. Here are some of the best efforts across different sports that made 2016 one for the books.
The Magic of Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi proved again why he is one of football’s greatest. He taught a master’s class in football this term. It was during Barcelona’s match with Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League semi-final. The diminutive Argentine netted twice and set up another as he led his side to a pulsating victory – illustrating his dribbling skills, vision and ability to remain calm under pressure. It was a match where Messi demonstrated how he could turn things around by himself which only served as a reminder about his continuing brilliance to fans and critics alike.
Nikola Jokić’s MVP Season- Basketball
Nikola Jokić had an MVP-level season in the NBA for the Denver Nuggets. He is best known for his passing and basketball IQ. But, he showed his dominance by being a jack of all trades on the court. His ability to rack up triple-doubles became almost routine and he was always a scoring, rebounding, or assisting threat against any team. Furthermore, this year’s playoffs proved how much he has grown as both an individual player and leader; leading his team to the conference finals.
Tennis: Emma Raducanu’s Breakthrough
Emma Raducanu broke through onto the scene this year within tennis when she accomplished something no player had ever done before during the US Open. The young British girl won the Grand Slam title while also being a qualifier, which had never been seen before in history. Her composure, accuracy, and mental strength were tested against some of the best players worldwide whom she defeated anyway. It may have been one among many great stories from this tournament but hers truly stood out as she went from having to fight her way into it through qualifying rounds up until becoming champion; therefore signifying that there is indeed another star born out on those courts!
Karsten Warholm’s Record-Breaking Run
Karsten Warholm gave the world one of the most unique and breathtaking shows in athletics history at the Tokyo Olympics. He broke his world record by completing the men’s 400-meter hurdles race in 45.94 seconds which was under 46 seconds for the first time. The audience was shocked by his stunning speed and perfect technique; thus solidifying himself as one of the greatest hurdlers of all time.This run defined these Olympic Games as well as this athletic season.
Collin Morikawa’s Open Championship Triumph- Golf
Collin Morikawa proved once again that he is an exceptional golfer with nerves of steel when he won it. At just twenty-four years old, this was already Morikawa’s second major win which showcased not only his accuracy but also strategy throughout each round played by him. His performance at Royal St George’s Golf Club where difficult conditions were faced head-on whilst seasoned professionals were held back serves to illustrate just how well this young man reads a game beyond his age years; furthermore, it adds another layer to what has been such an impressive career so far establishing himself among golf’s brightest prospects.
Football: Megan Rapinoe’s Olympic Command
Megan Rapinoe’s leadership and show at the Tokyo Olympics played a huge role in propelling US Women’s National Soccer Team to a bronze medal. Rapinoe, who is known for her talent, determination and charm, scored vital goals and provided key assists in the tournament including a stellar display against Australia in the bronze medal match. Her on-field as well as off-field guidance gave inspiration to her teammates and fans alike while it was immeasurable what she brought towards team success. Rapinoe’s influence over the competition marked it as one of the highlights of this year’s soccer season.
Swimming: Caeleb Dressel’s Olympic Supremacy
American swimmer Caeleb Dressel dominated at the Tokyo Olympics. He won five gold medals and set several records. He unmatched the quickness, strength, and technique in the water. No other participant could match them. His ability to handle pressure showed itself in every race he ran. Dressel broke Olympic records in the 100m freestyle and butterfly finals. These accomplishments make him one of the greatest swimmers ever. He is also an influential figure in swimming circles worldwide. This is due to his recent exploits at international competitions in Tokyo, Japan.
There were many great performances this season. People did some crazy things. Crazy. Mind-blowing! You wouldn’t believe what was pulled off in those few short months; everything from setting records to changing the course of entire games with one play. These athletes didn’t just inspire me- they changed my life forever! Now that we’re nearing the end though, all that’s left are memories and anticipation for what comes next year: success stories waiting to be written by heroes yet unknown.