Home
As 2024 wraps up, Google has released its list of the year’s most-searched athletes, with Algerian boxer Imane Khelif topping the rankings. Alongside her, notable names like India’s Hardik Pandya, Spanish football prodigy Lamine Yamal, and boxing legend Mike Tyson dominated headlines due to their accomplishments and controversies. These athletes made their mark in 2024, captivating fans with their performances and personal stories. Cristiano Ronaldo was the most searched athlete on Google in 2023, with 199.4 million searches.
Top 10 Most-Searched Athletes in 2024:
1. Imane Khelif
2. Mike Tyson
3. Lamine Yamal
4. Simone Biles
5. Jake Paul
6. Nico Williams
7. Hardik Pandya
8. Scottie Scheffler
9. Shashank Singh
10. Rodri
Imane Khelif: Overcoming Controversy to Shine in Paris
Imane Khelif, an Algerian boxer, grabbed international attention in 2024 after a gender controversy during the Paris Olympics. Initially disqualified from the 2023 World Boxing Championship due to the presence of XY chromosomes, Khelif was later cleared by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to compete. The drama escalated when Italian boxer Angela Carini forfeited their bout with Khelif after just 46 seconds, citing Khelif's power as the reason. Despite the issues, Khelif triumphed by securing the gold in the women’s 66kg boxing category, further solidifying her reputation.
Mike Tyson: A Legendary Return to Boxing
Mike Tyson, one of boxing's most iconic figures, made a high-profile return to the sport in 2024 after a 19-year hiatus. Tyson faced YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a much-anticipated match. Despite losing to Paul, Tyson’s comeback reignited his legacy, and the fight became one of the year’s most-watched sporting events, reminding fans why "Iron Mike" remains a legend.
Lamine Yamal: A Teenage Football Phenomenon
Seventeen-year-old Lamine Yamal of Spain became a household name in 2024 after playing a pivotal role in his country’s Euro 2024 victory. Yamal made history as the youngest player to both appear and score in a European Championship, marking a significant achievement in Spain’s triumph in Germany. His remarkable performances cemented him as one of the brightest young stars in global football.
Simone Biles: Dominance in Gymnastics Continues
Simone Biles further cemented her place in gymnastics history at the Paris Olympics in 2024. Biles added three gold medals and one silver to her tally, bringing her total to 11 Olympic medals. This achievement tied her with Vera Čáslavská as the second-most decorated female gymnast in Olympic history. Biles’ outstanding performances in Paris reminded the world why she is widely regarded as the greatest gymnast of all time.
Jake Paul: The Boxer with a Social Media Background
Jake Paul’s transformation from a content creator to a professional boxer reached new heights in 2024. In his highly anticipated fight against Mike Tyson, Paul’s unexpected victory turned heads and further fueled his rise in the boxing world. His journey continues to intrigue fans, and despite initial doubts about his legitimacy, Paul has proven himself as a serious contender in the ring.
Nico Williams: Rising Star in Spanish Football
Spanish footballer Nico Williams, alongside Lamine Yamal, emerged as one of the standout performers in Euro 2024. Williams scored crucial goals for Spain, including one in the final, as the team triumphed in Germany. His dynamic performances have sparked transfer rumors, with speculations linking him to major clubs like Barcelona. Though no move materialized, Williams’ stock continues to rise in the football world.
Hardik Pandya: From Struggles to Redemption
Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya faced a mixed year in 2024. While his leadership of Mumbai Indians was under scrutiny after a disappointing IPL season, he redeemed himself by playing a key role in India’s much-awaited T20 World Cup victory. Pandya’s determination to bounce back from setbacks made him one of the most searched athletes of the year.
Scottie Scheffler: A Golf Superstar in the Making
Scottie Scheffler had a standout season in 2024, further establishing himself as one of golf’s brightest stars. With five PGA Tour victories, including his first-ever Masters win, Scheffler proved his consistency and skill. His rivalry with Rory McIlroy added excitement to the season, drawing fans’ attention and keeping them invested in every tournament.
Shashank Singh: IPL's Breakout All-Rounder
Shashank Singh, a previously uncapped Indian all-rounder, emerged as a breakout star in the 2024 IPL. Initially doubted as a questionable purchase by the Punjab Kings, Singh silenced his critics with stellar performances that made him one of the team’s most valuable players. His rise to prominence in the IPL was one of the most surprising stories of the year.
Rodri: A Controversial Ballon d’Or Victory
Rodri, the Manchester City midfielder, was crowned the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner, sparking debate and controversy in the football world. Many believed Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr. deserved the honor, leading to a boycott of the Ballon d'Or ceremony by Real Madrid. Despite the controversy, Rodri’s exceptional season and his achievement as the Ballon d'Or winner ensured his place in the spotlight.
