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From the Olympic and Paralympic Games to record-breaking revenue and audiences for women’s sport, 2024 was a big one for sport. Beyond the competition, the power of sport to unite and bring joy was on display around the world. Read on for our team’s thoughts on the most meaningful sporting moment of the year.
Fred Fikhouhi-Turner – Executive Director
The most powerful moment for me was Arshad Nadeem’s gold medal in Paris. He ended Pakistan’s 40-year gold medal drought with a gold in javelin, training in his backyard and with financial support from family and his village. Despite a lack of government funding for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, his village rallied behind him, helping him to make it to Tokyo 2021, where he finished 5th. For Paris 2024, Nadeem needed a new javelin but had no funds, so he turned to social media for help—and the support poured in. With his new javelin in hand, he headed to Paris, where he dominated the competition, throwing over 90 meters twice and setting an Olympic record of 92.97m. The celebrations back in his hometown were unforgettable. It truly takes a village to raise a gold medalist!
Karen Asare – Director of Content and Communications
A positive development I’ve seen is the continued exponential growth, respect and valuation of women’s sports. It’s being taking seriously for the business it is, engaging fans of all genders and backgrounds and inspiring more women and girls to take up and stay in sport. The significant private equity investments and resources going into women’s sport – from Michele Kang’s substantial funding of women’s soccer to the impact and results of the resources Clara Wu Tsai & Joe Tsai put into the NY Liberty to Whoopi Goldberg starting a global All Women’s Sports Network – are further pushing historic growth. Record viewership numbers, including over many men’s finals across various sports, passionate fans and fantastic athletes, really have me believing that this will remain a movement and not a moment (cliche, I know) for the industry.
Adam Burgess – Director of Programs
This year, two interconnected moments showcased the power of sport for me: the first-ever medals won by the Refugee Olympic and Paralympic teams. These teams represent individuals who have endured unimaginable hardships to reach the pinnacle of their sports. Cindy Ngamba won a bronze medal in women’s boxing, representing the Refugee Olympic Team in Paris. Meanwhile, Zakia Khudadadi earned a bronze medal in para taekwondo for the Refugee Paralympic Team. These achievements highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis that millions of people around the world continue to face.
Nick Coltman – Programs Coordinator
A moment from 2024 that sticks with me was the passing of Rob Burrow. As a rugby league fan, seeing greats of the game like Rob and Kevin Sinfield use their tough situation for good, raising awareness and millions in funding over many years for issues such as Motor Neurone Disease (MND), was inspiring. It showed the power of sport to unite people against great challenges to try and make the world a better place. The fact that Rob’s story spread past rugby league, a traditionally tight-knit community, as well as the outpouring of emotion after his passing from all corners of the sports world and beyond, emphasized Rob’s legendary status and the ability of sport to make a real positive difference when used as a platform to tackle wider problems.
Carly Heinz – Director of Development
This year, I believe sport had a significant positive impact, particularly through the remarkable growth of women’s sports, exemplified by the WNBA. The league experienced record-breaking attendance at games and an increase in television viewership, offering a glimpse into the future of sports. Many players in the WNBA have also been vocal advocates for social justice, using their platform to address critical issues beyond the court. This surge in visibility and impact reflects the growing demand for women’s sports, as well as the transformative power of amplifying these voices. It has been inspiring to see how the WNBA is leading the way in redefining the narrative around women in sports. And, it was amazing to see my city’s team – the New York Liberty – win their first WNBA title as well!
Tarryn Horner – Senior Grants and Programs Manager
A highlight for me this year has been the announcement of Simone Biles as the most marketable athlete of 2024. This recognition is not only a turning point for women’s sports and the industry but also justifies the commercial value within the women’s sports landscape, contributing to the progression toward gender equality in the sector. It has also brought mental health and well-being to the forefront of discussions in sports. Since Biles withdrew from the Tokyo Games and made her remarkable comeback at the 2024 Olympics, the narrative surrounding mental health in sports has positively shifted. Significant moments like this demonstrate the power of sports and their potential to impact and influence society beyond competition.
Claudia Larrea – Grants and Programs Manager
2024 was an extraordinary year for the growth and evolution of women’s soccer, particularly in the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL). The league saw unique milestones, including record-breaking player signings and an agreement that officially eliminated the draft system, signaling a shift towards empowering players with greater agency in their careers. The influx of world-renowned international players elevated the league’s competitiveness and global appeal, while legends like Marta made history, leading Orlando Pride to a NWSL championship victory. Additionally, the growing investment from influential women, like Michelle Kang, reinforced the momentum in the sport, highlighting the impact of female leadership in reshaping the soccer landscape. All of this has been both inspiring and a testament to the boundless potential of the game.
Abi Ogunmwonyi – Corporate and Foundations Manager
2024 has been a pivotal year for empowering women in sports and advocating open conversations about mental health across the board. A highlight for me is the increased visibility and opportunities for women in basketball. The huge expansion of media coverage for the WNBA and NCAA, along with fairer sponsorship deals and the FIBA U17 Women’s Basketball World Cup in 2024, shows that women’s basketball is receiving the global recognition it deserves. This is crucial because young aspiring players need to see that there does not have to be a glass ceiling in women’s sports. The increased investment in players has attracted top talent from around the world, creating a more inclusive and diverse environment within the sport. While there is still work to be done, it is encouraging to see how far we have come!
Ushma Patel – Content Manager
I believe that the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics was a great display of sports power this year! It wasn’t just a showcase of athletic excellence, but a celebration of progress and inclusivity. It was the first Olympic Games to have full gender parity on the field of play. This is a monumental step toward elevating women athletes and increasing representation in sporting competitions such as this. It was also the first Games to have an Olympic Village dedicated to parent-athletes competing, which demonstrates a shift in prioritizing wellbeing and fostering inclusive environments. Moreover, the Games placed a significant emphasis on sustainability and aimed to reduce carbon emissions by half compared to previous games. And of course, beyond these groundbreaking achievements, Paris 2024 was simply a great watch!
Abby West – Senior Grants and Programs Manager
For me, 2024 saw even more progress made to shift the balance of gender inequality within professional sport. It is often the oldest, most traditional sporting competitions that face the biggest criticisms related to gender balance. The America’s Cup in sailing is known as the world’s longest standing sport competition, first taking place in 1851. After 173 years, 2024 saw the very first (and long overdue) Women’s America’s Cup with teams from 12 nations on the start line. There is still a long way to go, but if the oldest competition in sport can make changes to increase opportunities for women athletes, then I have lots of hope for the future!
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