2016 was a year full of great sporting moments and events. There were moments of both joy and sadness, moments of tense finishes and anti-climatic endings, moments of laughter and tears and most importantly it was a year for sports fanatics around the globe to look back upon. Although, it is fairly obvious that no one can rank the top moments in sports throughout the year because of distinct opinions, here is a list of 10 sports moments worldwide which made the most noise among others in 2016.
Usain Bolt Does It Again
The fastest man on Earth lived up to his extraordinary expectations of winning the “Triple Triple” from fans across the globe. Bolt proved his dominance in sprints and conquered three gold medals in the Rio Olympics 2016. The Jamaican sprinter has won 3 gold in each of his last three Olympic Games.
Kobe Bryant Bids Adieu
Los Angeles Lakers basketball sensation and 18 times All Star Title winner, Kobe Bryant, retired from the sport at the age of 38 during 2016. He said goodbye to his illustrious career which spanned over a period of 20 years as a professional basketball player. The man who won 5 NBA Championship with Lakers retired at the Staples Centre. The match against the Utah Jazz was an emotional moment for sports fans worldwide and truly a memorable part of 2016.
Simone Biles and Katie Ladecky Shines
During each Olympics we get to see and witness some extraordinary talents, 2016 was no different. Simone Bilesan American Gymnast won 4 gold medals and wowed the audience with her grace and skills. Katie Ladecky, on the other hand, showcased utter dominance in the swimming events, as she went on win 5 gold medals at Rio 2016. The two American sports icons made the headlines for all the right reasons.
Murray grabs the Wimbledon
British tennis player and 3-time Grand Slam winner Andy Murray won the most coveted trophy in tennis for a second time in 2016. He beat Milas Raonic in the finals to win the prestigious Wimbledon Trophy. He repeated his feat from 2013 and established himself as one of Britain’s best tennis players. That moment of him grabbing the trophy and lifting it up in the air will be etched in our memories for years to come.
Finally, Cubs wins it
The Chicago Cubs ended their 108-year-old title drought after defeating Cleveland Indians. The moment of them winning the World Series Championship is one of the most memorable sporting moments for lovers of the game.
Conor Mcgregors Shocking Loss
UFC 196 saw one of the most shocking results when then undefeated fighter Conor McGregor lost for the first time in the UFC ring against Nate Diaz. His run without a single loss came to a halt during the moment of disbelief when Nate Diaz made him submit to the rear naked choke.
Leicester City does the Impossible
2016 saw one of the greatest EPL underdog story. Leicester City shocked the world and won the Premier League when most expected them to be possibly relegated. Ranieri’s men scripted one of the best sports moments of the year and beyond.
Underdogs wins the Euro
Portugal was never a favorite to win the Euro Cup 2016 yet they proved everyone wrong and won the cup in France this year. Cristiano Ronaldo and his team-mates won the championship in a final full of high octane energy and drama.
LeBron James Wins it for Cleveland
Cleveland Cavaliers won the Championship in dramatic fashion thanks to one of most replayed moments of 2016, The Block. LeBron James saved his side from losing in the finals of NBA after he elegantly and skillfully blocked the Andre Iguodala shot.
The Extraordinary Phelps
Dubbed as a legend in the Olympics, American swimmer Michael Phelps ended his Olympic journey this year after securing 5 medals. He has a total tally of 28 Olympic medals out of which 23 of them is gold. His final appearance at the 2016 Olympics will forever be remembered.