Sports captivates billions globally, with enthusiasts flocking to stadiums or tuning into TVs to witness their athletic icons. 

As 2024 unfolds, a crucial query arises: What are the standout sports events for the new year? 

This year boasts a constellation of significant events spanning various disciplines, including the grand spectacle of the Olympics. 

From football to cricket, tennis to badminton, numerous marquee events await enthusiasts. Delve into the details as Nounouche unveils the key sports events in 2024 that deserve a spot on your calendar.

Africa Cup of Nations (Football)

Date: 13 January – 14 February 

African footballers have left an indelible impact on global club football, particularly in Europe. The upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, hosted in Ivory Coast, promises the spectacle of renowned stars such as Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Vincent Aboubakar, and Andre Onana, among others. 

While Senegal, the defending champions, enter as favourites, formidable contenders like Egypt and Cameroon are poised to present a formidable challenge for the coveted title.

Australian Open (Tennis) 

Date: 14 – 28 January 

The first tennis Grand Slam of the year highlights the comeback of Spanish icon Rafael Nadal, following a one-year break that led to his descent outside the top 100 in the ATP men’s singles rankings.

Anticipate thrilling showdowns, as newcomers strive to outclass the game’s legends.

ICC U-19 Men’s World Cup (Cricket)

Date: 19 January to 11 February

The first cricket tournament for the year is set to take place in South Africa where young talents aspire to make their mark on the international stage, aiming to secure positions in senior squads.

Super Bowl LVIII (American Football)

Date: 11 February 

For passionate enthusiasts of American Football, the upcoming Super Bowl is a highly anticipated event. This edition holds special significance as it will be the first Super Bowl hosted in Nevada and the third consecutive year the event takes place in the western USA. 

Notably, the halftime show will feature a performance by the renowned American singer and songwriter Usher. 

Masters Tournament (Golf)

Date: 8-14 April 

April brings forth the first golfing spectacle of the year, the Masters Tournament at the Augusta National Golf Club in Georgia, USA. A stellar lineup, including Rory McIlroy, Brooks Koepka, and Wyndham Clark, will vie for supremacy in this highly anticipated competition.

PGA Championship 

Date: 13-19 May

Following the 2024 Masters Tournament, the golf scene shifts to the Valhalla Golf Course in Maine for what is widely considered one of the sport’s most prestigious events—the PGA Championship. Notably, the PGA Championship boasts one of the most substantial prize payouts in the realm of sports across all disciplines.

French Open (Tennis) 

Date: 20 May – 9 June 

Having missed the 2023 edition due to injury, Rafael Nadal eagerly anticipates the 2024 French Open, especially given his record 14 title wins at this Grand Slam. 

However, formidable competitors like Novak Djokovic, Carlos Alcaraz, and Daniil Medvedev pose strong challenges, showcasing their prowess and making a case for potential victory at the revered Roland Garros in Paris.

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (Cricket) 

Date: 4-30 June 

Following the 2023 ODI World Cup, the buzz shifts to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in June, taking centre stage as the shortest format of international cricket captivates enthusiasts. 

Notably, the USA, co-hosting with the West Indies, makes history by hosting an ICC tournament for the first time in its sporting legacy.

UEFA Euro (Football) 

Date: 14 June – 14 July 

Featuring a stellar lineup including Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe, Karim Benzema, Robert Lewandowski, Marcus Rashford, Toni Kroos, Harry Kane, and Jude Bellingham, the quadrennial tournament promises a clash of football titans vying for European glory.

In the 2024 edition, there’s speculation about Ronaldo’s potential final appearance in the Portuguese jersey. A retirement with the silver trophy in hand would be a fairy-tale ending for the football maestro, who previously secured it in 2016.

Copa America (Football) 

Date: 20 June – 14 July 

With Neymar Jr, Lionel Messi, Vinicius Jr, Angel Di Maria, and Emiliano Martinez among the star-studded lineup, the competition promises intense action. Hosted in the USA, this tournament might witness Messi bidding farewell to his international career. Defending champions Argentina remain vigilant against formidable challengers, notably their arch-nemesis Brazil.

Wimbledon Open (Tennis) 

Date: 1-14 July 

The Wimbledon Open in 2024 will provide players with ideal match preparation ahead of the Olympics in August.

Olympics (Multi-sports event) 

Date: 26 July – 11 August 

In Paris, China and the USA are poised to contend for the top two spots, yet athletes from various nations aspire to leave their imprint. 

Footballers, tennis players, shuttlers, and hockey players, among others, representing diverse sports disciplines, will converge in this quadrennial celebration of sports excellence.

US Open (Tennis) 

Date: 26 August – 8 September 

Following the Olympics, some prominent tennis players might opt to skip the US Open, a trend observed in previous years. Nonetheless, this in no way diminishes the importance of the final tennis Grand Slam of the year. 

Set to unfold at the iconic Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York, the US Open stands as one of the world’s oldest sports competitions, boasting a rich and storied heritage.

FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup (Football) 

Date: 16 October – 3 November 

The U-17 Women’s World Cup assures to be a prestigious tournament, hosted by the Dominican Republic. 

This event marks the country’s first hosting of a FIFA competition.

BWF World Tour Finals (Badminton) 

Date: 11-15 December 

Concluding the roster of major sports events in 2024 is a pinnacle badminton competition. Following a series of tournaments, the spotlight shifts to the grandest honour in the sport—the BWF World Tour Finals. 

Hosted in Hangzhou, China, this tournament will feature only the top shuttlers vying for the coveted crown.