The Most Satisfying Wins in Sports History

Messi Wins His First FIFA World Cup

Lionel Messi’s illustrious career was crowned with glory when he led Argentina to victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. At 35, an age when many athletes consider retirement, Messi scored crucial goals throughout the tournament, culminating in a victory that ended Argentina’s 36-year World Cup drought. Fans worldwide celebrated, with a national holiday declared in Argentina to honor the triumph. This wasn’t just a win; it was a historical event that unified and exhilarated people across the globe.

India’s Remarkable Comeback

Cricket, much like football, holds a quasi-religious reverence among its followers. The disappointment was palpable when India lost the ODI World Cup finals in 2023. However, redemption came swiftly at the T20 World Cup in 2024, where India, unbeaten in the tournament, clinched the title by defeating South Africa. The victory sparked jubilant celebrations, particularly in Mumbai, where fans thronged the streets in a vibrant display of support. This victory ended a 13-year wait and is celebrated as one of the greatest moments in Indian cricket history.

Serena Williams’ Grand Slam Win While Pregnant

Serena Williams, a name synonymous with resilience and skill, added an extraordinary chapter to her legacy during the 2017 Australian Open. After securing the title against a field that included her sister Venus, Serena revealed she had been 20 weeks pregnant during the tournament. Winning a 23rd Grand Slam title under such conditions was a testament to her incredible fortitude and dedication, making this one of the most inspiring moments in sports.

Simone Biles: The Comeback Queen

Simone Biles, a gymnastic prodigy and the youngest recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, has repeatedly demonstrated that comebacks are indeed possible. After a brief hiatus, questioned by many critics, Biles returned to dominate the 2018 games. Her performances were so exceptional that new gymnastic moves were named in her honor. As she prepares for the 2024 Paris Games, Biles continues to inspire and awe fans around the world.

Usain Bolt’s ‘Triple Triple’

Usain Bolt, the sprinting legend, achieved what few could even dream of during the 2016 Rio Olympics. He completed the ‘Triple Triple’—gold medals in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay. This staggering achievement added to his already impressive tally of 8 Olympic golds and 11 World Championships, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest athletes of all time.

These moments are more than just wins; they are milestones that resonate deeply with fans and non-fans alike, reminding us of the power of sports to inspire, unite, and thrill. Whether it’s the thrill of a last-minute goal, a record-breaking sprint, or a triumphant return from adversity, sports offer some of the most satisfying moments in human experience.

Resources

Messi Wins his FIFA

Lionel Messi has finally won the FIFA World Cup, and can claim to be the greatest male footballer of all time – ABC News. (2022, December 18). ABC News. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-12-19/lionel-messi-wins-world-cup-and-claim-goat-status/101786450
McNulty, P. (2022, December 18). World Cup final: Lionel Messi leads Argentina to glory – is he now football’s greatest? BBC Sport; BBC Sport. https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/64021057

India makes a comeback

NDTV Sports. (2024, July 14). NDTVSports.com. https://sports.ndtv.com/t20-world-cup-2024/emotions-are-still-going-through-sanju-samson-on-indias-t20-world-cup-win-6103826
Financial Express. (2024). Financialexpress.com; Financial Express. https://www.financialexpress.com/g/men/mens-big-tall/big-tall-pants/

‌Serena does it again

Roxby, P. (2017, April 20). Serena Williams: How did she compete while pregnant? BBC News; BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/health-39653672
King, K. (2024, January 10). Serena Williams won final Grand Slam while secretly pregnant at Australian Open. The Mirror. https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/tennis/serena-williams-australian-open-pregnant-31849779

Simone Biles: Genius Gymnast