From historic Olympic wins to FIFA U-17 World Cup: Africa’s top sporting moments of 2024

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From Beatrice Chebet’s double gold triumph to Letsile Tebogo’s historic gold in the 200m at the Paris Olympics,we look back at some of the top sporting moments that lit up the continent in 2024.

By Eng’ Okemwa

As the 2025 sporting calendar gets underway, Africa stands tall, celebrating the past year, rich in unforgettable sporting milestones.

From breathtaking athletic performances on the global stage to triumphant moments in women’s football, 2024 was the year when African athletes captured the world’s attention and filled the continent with pride.

Here’s a look back at the major highlights that defined 2024 in African sports. 

Kenya’s golden touch in athletics 

The Paris 2024 Olympics proved once again why Kenya remains an athletic powerhouse. The nation added four medals to its illustrious Olympic history, all won in track and field events. Leading the charge was Faith Kipyegon, who secured gold in the women’s 1500m and silver 5000m events, cementing her legacy as one of the greatest middle-distance runners of all time. 

Kenya’s track baddies Faith Kipyegon and Beatrice Chebet.

Kipyegon’s victories not only extended her dominance but also underscored her consistency, as she crossed the finish line in record-breaking times. Joining her on the podium was Emmanuel Korir, who grabbed gold in the men’s 800m, and Beatrice Chebet, who earned Kenya gold in both the women’s 5000m and 10000m races. 

Kenya’s collective performance saw the nation rank top in Africa, showcasing its continued dominance in the sport. 

A dream realised: Kenya’s Junior Starlets make FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup history 

Kenyan women’s football achieved a groundbreaking feat in 2024. The Junior Starlets, Kenya’s U-17 women’s football team, made history by qualifying for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup for the first time ever. 

The team’s journey was nothing short of remarkable. After defeating Burundi 5-0 on aggregate in the final round of qualifiers, the Starlets booked their ticket to the global showpiece in the Dominican Republic from October 16–November 3, 2024. Goals from Marion Serenge and Valerie Nekesa in the decisive match sealed Kenya’s place. 

Kenya taking on England at FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic.

Team captain Elizabeth Ochaka called it “a dream come true”, highlighting the collective effort and immense support from stakeholders. Kenya will join African powerhouses Nigeria and Zambia in representing the continent at the prestigious tournament. 

The Olympics: A showcase of African brilliance 

While Kenya shone, other African nations also made significant strides at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Uganda secured two medals, both of monumental importance. Joshua Cheptegei, a three-time world champion, added another 10000m title to his collection, while Peruth Chemutai earned silver in the women’s 3000m steeplechase. 

Botswana celebrated its first-ever Olympic gold in the 200m, courtesy of 21-year-old Letsile Tebogo, who outran American greats to claim the title. Tebogo’s historic win led to a national holiday in Botswana, with the sprinter also helping secure a silver medal in the men’s 4x400m relay. 

Botswana celebrated its first-ever Olympic gold in the 200m, courtesy of 21-year-old Letsile Tebogo.

Morocco’s tally included a gold from Soufiane El Bakkali in the 3000m steeplechase and a bronze in football, marking the first Olympic medal in the nation’s football history. 

Women’s football in Africa: A rising force 

Kenya wasn’t the only African nation to make headlines in women’s football. Nigeria was the first to qualify for the U-17 World Cup, dismantling Liberia with a 6-1 aggregate victory. Zambia also earned their spot after holding Morocco to a decisive goalless draw. 

The U-17 Women’s World Cup will feature 16 teams, including three African representatives, in what promises to be a showcase of emerging talent. 

A memorable Paris 2024 closing ceremony 

The Paris Olympics concluded with a spectacular closing ceremony at the Stade de France, attended by over 70,000 fans and 8,000 athletes. Global icons like Phoenix, AIR, and Angèle performed, while Tom Cruise added a Hollywood touch by carrying the Olympic flag, symbolically passing it to Los Angeles, the host city for 2028. 

The Paris Olympics concluded with a spectacular closing ceremony at the Stade de France.

Looking ahead 

As Kenya reflects on its 2024 achievements, the focus now shifts to 2025 and the opportunities ahead. With the Junior Starlets gearing up for their World Cup debut and the nation continuing to nurture its athletic talent, there is no doubt that Kenya will remain a global force in sports. 

From the tracks of Paris to the football fields of the Dominican Republic, 2024 will forever be remembered as a year of firsts, records, and unparalleled pride for Kenya and Africa at large. 

What were your favourite sporting moments of 2024? Let us know in the comments below. 

SportsAfrica
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