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Year-End Review: Key International Sports Events of 2024

The year 2024 was notable for significant achievements in international sports, including LeBron James reaching 40,000 points, the first Olympic Qualifier Series, multiple world records set in athletics, Spain winning UEFA Euro 2024, Argentina’s Copa America victory, and the historic retirements of several sports legends. Max Verstappen secured his fourth consecutive Formula 1 championship, completing a year filled with memorable athletic accomplishments.

In 2024, the realm of international sports witnessed remarkable milestones that resonated across continents. LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers etched his name in history as the NBA’s first player to reach 40,000 regular-season points, accomplishing this feat on March 2. Subsequently, the inaugural Olympic Qualifier Series, held in Shanghai and Budapest, showcased athletes from over 120 countries, with the event’s innovative approach combining sports with cultural elements, leading to 158 securing spots for the Paris 2024 Olympics.

The year saw a plethora of world records broken in athletics, with notable performances including Yaroslava Mahuchikh’s high jump at 2.10 meters and Ruth Chepngetich’s record-breaking marathon time of 2:09:56. In football, Spain triumphed over England to win the UEFA Euro 2024, while Argentina claimed the Copa America, cementing their status in football history.

Significant decisions during the 142nd IOC Session resulted in the French Alps being chosen to host the 2030 Winter Olympics, alongside Salt Lake City for the 2034 edition. The Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, held under the theme “Games Wide Open”, further set records with a display of athletic excellence, particularly from the Chinese delegation, which marked its best overseas performance.

Zheng Qinwen made history by becoming the first Asian athlete to secure an Olympic tennis singles title, and the Xinhua Institute published an insightful report on China’s vision for sporting excellence guided by President Xi Jinping’s discourses. The year ended on a poignant note as multiple sporting legends, including Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray, announced their retirements, signifying a shift in the landscape of their respective sports. Finally, Max Verstappen continued his dominance in Formula 1, capturing his fourth consecutive World Drivers’ Championship at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.

The year 2024 was pivotal for global sports events, showcasing not only individual achievements but also the overarching themes of competition and national pride. Key players reshaping their sports, as well as significant competitions like the Olympics and Euros, highlighted the evolution of athletic capabilities and records. This year’s narrative is also distinguished by historical retirements, pointing towards the transitioning trends in various sports.

In summary, 2024 has been a landmark year in the world of sports, highlighted by historic achievements, shattered records, and remarkable competitions. The performances at the Olympic Qualifier Series set the stage for an exciting Olympic season, while the significant retirements of sports icons indicate a transformative period in athletics. Events like the UEFA Euro and the Paris Olympics further enriched the sporting tapestry, showcasing the indomitable spirit of sportsmanship on a global scale.

Original Source: english.news.cn

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