Olympic 800m champion Keely Hodgkinson has been named BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024.
The 22-year-old secured her first global title at the Paris Olympics, following back-to-back world silvers after her impressive Olympic debut in Tokyo three years prior.
In addition to her Olympic triumph, Hodgkinson retained her European 800m title in Rome and etched her name in history by becoming the sixth-fastest woman ever over the distance. She set a new British record with a time of 1:54.61 at the London Diamond League.
“I am in a bit of shock,” Hodgkinson admitted.
“I am more excited for my coach as I wouldn’t be here without his guidance. This year has been incredible and I achieved everything that I set out to do on the outdoor track. I hope you loved watching Paris.”
Darts sensation Luke Littler finished as runner-up, while England cricketer Joe Root claimed third place.
The shortlist, chosen by a panel of experts, also included Sarah Storey, Alex Yee, and Jude Bellingham, with the winner determined by a public vote.
The winner of BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 is…
🌟 KEELY HODGKINSON 🌟#SPOTY pic.twitter.com/dVd9i7A8PB
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) DECEMBER 17, 2024
Hodgkinson’s victory marks the fourth consecutive year a woman has won the award, following England goalkeeper Mary Earps’ success in 2023.
Her coaches, Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows, were also honoured earlier in the evening, receiving the Coach of the Year award.
Hodgkinson’s 2024 season was nothing short of spectacular, as she remained undefeated in the 800m and achieved her long-sought Olympic gold.
Her dominant performance in Paris ended Team GB’s eight-year wait for an Olympic track title, the first since Mo Farah’s double gold in Rio 2016.
She also became only the 10th British woman in history to win an Olympic athletics gold, and the first to do so since Jessica Ennis-Hill’s iconic victory at London 2012.
