Looking back at sports in 2025? Here’s a complete rewind of India’s glory, world championships, iconic moments, and rising sports across the globe.

New Delhi: As 2025 comes to an end, the global sports world looks back at a year filled with thrilling matches, historic wins, broken records, and growing inclusivity. From Tadej Pogačar winning his fourth Tour de France to India lifting the Women’s Cricket World Cup for the first time, the year offered unforgettable moments across continents.

Importantly, men’s and women’s sports received equal attention, while newer sports like esports and kho kho continued to grow. India also had one of its strongest sporting years, winning medals across traditional and emerging disciplines. This detailed review covers all major sports, highlighting results, key performances, and their impact.

Cricket: India’s World Cup Glory and Global Rivalries

Cricket was one of the biggest highlights of 2025. India enjoyed a historic year by achieving success in both women’s and men’s cricket.

At the ICC Women’s World Cup, hosted in India, the home team won its first-ever title. India defeated South Africa by 52 runs in the final. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur impressed with her leadership, while Smriti Mandhana’s attacking batting played a crucial role. This victory marked a major turning point for women’s sports in India.

In men’s cricket, India lifted the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai, defeating New Zealand, and also won the Asia Cup T20. Around the world, Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA saw Washington Freedom beat MI New York to win the title. Meanwhile, the men’s and women’s Ashes series between Australia and England delivered intense contests, proving cricket’s global popularity.

Football: Bigger Tournaments and Women Leading the Way

Football saw major developments in 2025. The expanded FIFA Club World Cup in the USA surprised fans with unexpected results. Clubs like Al Hilal, Chelsea, and Inter Miami grabbed headlines with strong performances.

In Europe, England’s women’s team successfully defended their title at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 in Switzerland, confirming their dominance. The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) also produced thrilling matches.

In India, the women’s football team won the SABA Championship, defeating the Maldives 107–32, while men’s football focused more on youth development despite ongoing challenges. The Globe Soccer Awards celebrated stars from clubs like PSG and Bayern Munich.

Tennis: Rivalries and Balanced Grand Slam Wins

Tennis fans enjoyed an exciting year marked by intense rivalries. In men’s tennis, Jannik Sinner won the Australian Open and Wimbledon, while Carlos Alcaraz claimed the French Open and US Open. Their matches became one of the biggest attractions of the season.

In women’s tennis, Aryna Sabalenka won the Australian Open, Coco Gauff lifted the French Open, while Madison Keys and Iga Swiatek shared other major titles. Indian tennis showed promise at the junior level, but senior players did not make major breakthroughs.

Basketball: New Stars Shine

The NBA 2025–26 season saw the Oklahoma City Thunder rise as serious contenders. Players like Luka Dončić and Victor Wembanyama impressed fans with their performances.

In the WNBA, A’ja Wilson had an outstanding year, while the Indiana Fever reached the playoffs. In India, women’s basketball progressed further with another SABA Championship victory.

Athletics: Records Fall, India Competes Strongly

At the World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, Noah Lyles won his fourth gold medal in the 200m. Mondo Duplantis broke his own pole vault world record, and Beatrice Chebet won two gold medals.

For India, Neeraj Chopra finished eighth in javelin, while Sachin Yadav placed fourth. Indian athletes also earned historic team medals, showing steady progress.

Formula 1: A Last-Race Championship Drama

Formula 1 delivered one of its most dramatic seasons ever. Lando Norris won the 2025 Drivers’ Championship for McLaren, beating Max Verstappen by just two points in the final race at Abu Dhabi. In India, interest in Formula 1 continued to grow.

Golf: Consistency at the Top

In men’s golf, Rory McIlroy won the Masters, while Scottie Scheffler claimed the PGA Championship and The Open. J.J. Spaun won the US Open. Women’s golf also saw new champions, including Mao Saigo and Maja Stark. The Ryder Cup brought intense team competition. Indian golfers continued to gain experience on the Asian Tour.

Rugby and Volleyball: Strong Team Performances

In rugby, England’s women’s team won the 2025 Women’s World Cup, defeating Canada 33–13. India focused on developing its rugby sevens program.

Volleyball World Championships in the Philippines (men) and Thailand (women) featured tough competition. India participated actively at the Asian level.

Badminton and Chess: Indian Champions Emerge

At the BWF World Championships, Lakshya Sen became world champion, while Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won bronze. India also dominated the Syed Modi International.

In chess, Divya Deshmukh won the FIDE Women’s World Cup, while Arjun Erigaisi earned a bronze in rapid and blitz formats. Globally, Javokhir Sindarov won the men’s World Cup.

Hockey, Esports, and Indigenous Sports

India won gold at the Men’s Asia Cup and silver in women’s hockey. The Hockey India League made a strong comeback.

In esports, League of Legends Worlds 2025 broke viewership records, while Team Vitality won big at the Esports World Cup.

India also dominated in kabaddi, kho kho, shooting, archery, and squash, winning world titles and multiple medals across categories.

Winter Sports and Multi-Sport Events

At the Special Olympics Winter Games in Turin, India won 33 medals, including 8 gold. Indian athletes also competed at the FISU Winter Games. The National Games 2025, hosted in Uttarakhand, highlighted emerging Indian talent.

The year 2025 brought the world together through sport, with India winning over 100 medals across disciplines. As attention turns to the 2026 Winter Olympics and the FIFA World Cup, the spirit of resilience, equality, and excellence continues to define global sports.

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