Keely Hodgkinson’s stellar year reached a fitting climax as she was crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024. The Olympic 800m champion, who has been unstoppable on the track, was recognized for her remarkable achievements, including Olympic and European gold medals, breaking her own British record, and maintaining an unbeaten streak over two laps.
Hodgkinson, a 22-year-old from Atherton, near Wigan, reflected on her journey with pride, attributing her success to daring to dream big as a child. Her triumph in Paris, where she entered as a favorite and emerged victorious, mirrored her rise to claim this prestigious award. The audience at Media City in Salford erupted in chants of “Keely! Keely!” as she expressed her gratitude and amazement at the honor.
This accolade marks the fourth consecutive year a woman has won the award, following Emma Raducanu, Beth Mead, and Mary Earps. Hodgkinson’s victory was complemented by her coaches, Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows, being named Coaches of the Year. The husband-and-wife duo played a pivotal role not only in guiding Hodgkinson to gold but also in securing medals for other athletes under their mentorship.
Painter and Meadows praised Hodgkinson’s dedication and work ethic, highlighting her maturity and consistent performance at the global level. With four global medals in as many years, Hodgkinson’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. The coaches expressed pride in her achievements, emphasizing the hard work behind her success.
The event also celebrated other outstanding achievements in the world of sports. Seventeen-year-old darts prodigy Luke Littler secured second place after a breakthrough year, which included reaching the world darts championship final. Littler was also named Young Sports Personality of the Year, a testament to his impact on the sport at such a young age. He acknowledged the growing popularity of darts and his role in its resurgence, expressing excitement about the future.
England cricketer Joe Root, who finished third in the main award, was lauded for his contributions to the sport. A lighter moment during the ceremony came when the Strictly Come Dancing judges humorously reviewed the candidates’ footwork, with Root earning praise for his style and posture.
The night also honored individuals who made significant contributions beyond competitive sports. Dr. Mark Prince received the Helen Rollason Award for his efforts to combat knife crime following the tragic loss of his son, Kiyan, in 2006. Through the Kiyan Prince Foundation, Prince has worked tirelessly to inspire and guide young people, turning personal tragedy into a mission for change.
Cycling legend Mark Cavendish was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award after breaking Eddy Merckx’s record for Tour de France stage wins. His dedication to the sport and remarkable career earned him a standing ovation. The Wigan Warriors were named Team of the Year after a historic season that included winning the World Club Challenge and the Super League Grand Final.
The evening also celebrated unsung heroes, with 90-year-old Jean Paton receiving recognition for her 40 years of volunteer service at Salterns Sailing Club in Hampshire. Her decades of dedication and impact on the local community highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship and selflessness.
In athletics, pole vaulter Armand Duplantis was awarded World Star of the Year after retaining his Olympic title and breaking his own world record three times. His achievements underscored the global excellence celebrated throughout the event.
The ceremony featured an all-female cast of presenters for the first time, creating a celebratory and inclusive atmosphere. The event paid tribute to Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic heroes, as well as retiring tennis star Andy Murray, whose career has left an indelible mark on the sport.
Hodgkinson’s win encapsulated a night of inspiration and achievement, celebrating athletes who pushed boundaries and left lasting legacies in their respective fields. For Hodgkinson, 2024 will be remembered as the year she not only achieved her dreams but inspired countless others to dream big.
