As the year comes to a close, sports fans are gearing up for one of the most anticipated nights in the sporting calendar: the BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) Awards. This prestigious event celebrates the outstanding achievements of athletes who have left an indelible mark on the world of sports. In 2024, six exceptional individuals have been shortlisted for the honor. Here’s a closer look at the contenders vying for the title.
Jude Bellingham – Football
At just 21 years old, Jude Bellingham has taken the football world by storm. The young midfielder enjoyed a sensational debut season with Real Madrid, where he netted an impressive 23 goals across all competitions. His performances on the pitch have been nothing short of extraordinary, leading England to the Euro 2024 final and delivering a stunning overhead kick against Slovakia that will be etched in fans’ memories. Bellingham’s contributions also earned him a third-place finish in the Ballon d’Or rankings, the highest for an English player in nearly two decades.
Keely Hodgkinson – Athletics
Keely Hodgkinson, aged 22, cemented her place in British athletics history with a golden year. The 800m runner clinched her first Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games, becoming Team GB’s first track champion since 2016. Her dominance continued as she defended her European Championship title earlier in the year. Hodgkinson’s consistency and composure under pressure have made her one of the brightest stars in athletics.
Luke Littler – Darts
Darts prodigy Luke Littler has captured the imagination of sports fans with his meteoric rise. At just 17 years old, he reached the PDC World Darts Championship final, becoming the youngest Premier League Darts champion in history. Littler’s natural talent and fearless approach to the game have propelled him to fourth in the world rankings, making him a standout contender for SPOTY.
Joe Root – Cricket
Joe Root continues to shine as one of England’s finest cricketers. The former Test captain played a pivotal role in England’s resurgence in international cricket over the past year. His consistency with the bat, leadership skills, and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations have been instrumental in the team’s success. Root’s contributions highlight his enduring excellence and importance to the sport.
Dame Sarah Storey – Para-Cycling
Dame Sarah Storey, Britain’s most decorated Paralympian, once again proved why she is a legend in para-sport. Adding to her already staggering medal tally, Storey delivered outstanding performances at the Paris Paralympics, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer in para-cycling. Her achievements continue to inspire the next generation of athletes.
Alex Yee – Triathlon
Alex Yee has had another exceptional year in triathlon, representing Great Britain on the global stage with distinction. Known for his resilience and versatility, Yee has consistently delivered in some of the toughest competitions in the world. His performances underline his dedication and exceptional talent, making him a deserving nominee.
A Night to Remember
The winner of the 2024 Sports Personality of the Year award will be decided by public vote during the live broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Tuesday, 17 December. Each nominee has an incredible story of triumph, dedication, and perseverance, making this year’s competition one of the most exciting in recent memory.
Who will take home the coveted trophy? Will it be Bellingham’s brilliance, Hodgkinson’s historic triumph, Littler’s youthful talent, Root’s cricketing mastery, Storey’s unparalleled legacy, or Yee’s endurance and grit? The choice lies in the hands of the public.
Don’t miss the chance to celebrate the best of British sport and vote for your favorite contender on the night of the event.