2024's Most Searched Athletes: A Year in Review

As 2024 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the sporting moments that captured the world's attention. For India, the T20 World Cup victory stands out as the highlight of the year. Alongside this triumph, the retirements of cricketing legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from T20 cricket also generated significant buzz. Surprisingly, neither Rohit nor Virat made it to the list of the most-searched athletes globally. The only Indian from the victorious World Cup squad to crack the top 10 was Hardik Pandya.

Interestingly, Hardik wasn’t the only Indian cricketer to feature on the list. Joining him was Shashank Singh, a relatively lesser-known name who plays for the Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Shashank's inclusion in the top 10 turned heads, especially since he remains uncapped and only played in the IPL for two months.

The story behind Shashank’s rise to internet fame is as intriguing as his appearance on the list. Reports suggest that Punjab Kings mistakenly bought him during the IPL 2024 auction, confusing him with another player of the same name. This mix-up quickly went viral, turning Shashank into an overnight sensation.

The 10 Most-Searched Athletes of 2024:

1. Imane Khelif – The Algerian boxer, embroiled in a gender controversy during the Paris Olympics, claimed the top spot after securing a gold medal and becoming a global topic of conversation.
2. Mike Tyson – The legendary boxer made headlines again following his exhibition match with Jake Paul.
3. Lamine Yamal – The young Barcelona and Spain winger captured hearts with his remarkable performances.
4. Simone Biles – The gymnastics icon continued to shine, cementing her place among the world’s best.
5. Jake Paul – The YouTuber-turned-boxer remained in the spotlight for his bouts and antics.
6. Nico Williams – The Spanish footballer enjoyed a breakout year with stellar performances.
7. Hardik Pandya – India’s T20 World Cup star earned recognition for his contributions on the field.
8. Scottie Scheffler – The American golfer impressed fans with his consistent game throughout the year.
9. Shashank Singh – The IPL auction drama and his surprising rise to fame earned him a spot.
10. Rodri – The Manchester City midfielder gained popularity for his pivotal role in both club and country successes.

From controversies to legendary comebacks and unexpected heroes, 2024 was packed with unforgettable moments that kept sports fans glued to their screens.