Keely Hodgkinson has been awarded the 2024 BBC Sports Personality of the Year, solidifying her status as a star in athletics. The 800m Olympic gold medalist for Great Britain triumphed at the Paris Olympics, marking a significant milestone in her athletic career.
Luke Littler, who was recognized as the Young SPOTY winner, has had a remarkable year, securing 10 titles including his first ranking major at the Grand Slam of Darts. His achievements have significantly boosted the sport’s popularity, making him a prominent figure in darts.
In third place was Joe Root, who recently became England’s all-time leading Test run-scorer. Other finalists for the public vote included Sarah Storey, Alex Yee, and Jude Bellingham.
Hodgkinson, who first gained international recognition by winning a silver medal in the 800m at the Tokyo Olympics at just 19 years old, continued to shine with two World Championship silver medals before her golden victory in Paris. Her achievement marks an impressive fourth consecutive year that a female athlete has claimed this prestigious award.
Littler’s ascent from world youth champion to a leading professional has been exceptional, drawing support from notable figures including David Beckham.
In other award news, the Wigan Warriors have been named Team of the Year after an outstanding 2024 season in which they claimed four trophies. The Super League champions kicked off their campaign with a victory over Australia’s Penrith Panthers in the World Club Challenge, followed by wins in the Challenge Cup and League Leaders’ Shield, ultimately defeating Hull KR in the Grand Final at Old Trafford. This marks only the third occasion a Rugby League club has won this award, adding to Wigan’s previous victory in 1994 and St Helens’ 2006 win.
