Keely Hodgkinson’s achievement as the winner of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 reflects her exceptional journey in athletics, particularly in middle-distance running. The announcement, broadcast on December 17, 2024, signals a monumental victory for the 22-year-old athlete, who has showcased remarkable resilience and talent throughout her career. Following her crowning, Hodgkinson expressed her astonishment, attributing her success not only to her dedication but also significantly to the guidance of her coach. This accolade rounds off a stellar year where she embraced the pinnacle of her sport by securing an Olympic gold medal in the 800m event at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Hodgkinson’s pathway to this prestigious award is marked by her significant accomplishments over the recent years. From securing multiple silver medals at the World Championships to her impressive performance on her Olympic debut in Tokyo, she consistently pushed the boundaries of her capability. This year, she not only won the Olympic title but also retained her European 800m title in Rome. Her commitment to excellence was further highlighted when she etched her name in history by becoming the sixth-fastest woman ever in her discipline, clocking a British record of 1:54.61 seconds during the London Diamond League.
The victory at Paris 2024 was historical, making Hodgkinson only the tenth British woman to secure an Olympic gold medal in athletics, a feat last achieved by Jessica Ennis-Hill during the London 2012 Games. This not only emphasizes Hodgkinson’s prowess on the track but also underscores a significant achievement for Team Great Britain, as she delivered the nation’s first Olympic track gold since Mo Farah’s double win in Rio 2016. As Hodgkinson articulated in her remarks to the BBC, the year has been transformative, filled with accomplishments that she had resolved to achieve.
In the competitive sphere of the award, Hodgkinson outperformed other notable contenders, such as darts player Luke Littler and England’s cricket captain Joe Root, who placed second and third, respectively. Alongside them were other distinguished nominees including cyclist Sarah Storey, triathlete Alex Yee, and footballer Jude Bellingham. It is noteworthy that Hodgkinson’s victory continues the trend of women winning the award consecutively, following Mary Earps, Beth Mead, and Emma Raducanu in the previous years.
Moreover, Hodgkinson’s coaches, Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows, received the Coach of the Year award, validating the synergistic effort behind her outstanding performances. These accolades culminate in a narrative of resilience, determination, and excellence that Hodgkinson represents and inspires in the realm of sports.
Looking ahead, the year 2025 promises further challenges and opportunities for Hodgkinson. As the new Olympic cycle unfolds, she remains in pursuit of greater accolades, eyeing not only indoor and outdoor World Championships but also the potential to break long-standing records. The historic achievement of Czech athlete Jarmila Kratochvilova, who set a world record of 1:53.28 in 1983, could soon be within Hodgkinson’s reach.
In summary, Keely Hodgkinson’s recognition as the BBC Sports Personality of the Year is not just a celebration of her individual talents and achievements, but also a reflection of the unity and support from her coaching team, her determination, and the spirit of resilience that drives athletes at the highest levels of competition. As she embarks on the next phase of her athletic career, the sports world eagerly anticipates her journey towards new heights and records.
