Touching moments in sports 2021

There is no denying that the last few years have been weird. 2021 saw more sporting events opening back up after a year-long hiatus stopped some from happening altogether, and some from having fans in attendance. In some ways, life started to get back to normal again this year after a year of a pandemic. In other ways, the effects are still very much alive. Despite the toll this whole pandemic has put on all of us, sports in 2021 really were full of beautiful moments that showed acts of good sportsmanship, opened the conversations about the importance of taking care of your mental health, and of athletes coming together to support each other during the hardest of times. Let’s take a look at some of the most touching moments in sports from this year, 2021.

Denmark’s Tribute to Christian Eriksen

The whole world was in shock when Christian Eriksen collapsed on the field during a soccer game. When Denmark played Belgium, they planned an emotional moment in the 10th minute of the game as a tribute to Eriksen. They kicked the ball away to interrupt the game and have all players and fans applaud for Eriksen.

Mutaz Essa Barshim and Gianmarco Temberi share the gold

At the Tokyo Olympics, two pole vaulters could not seem to outdo each other in the high jump. They asked the officials if it was possible to share the gold and as soon as they indicated that it was, they just gave each other a knowing look and a nod before hugging each other in celebration and excitement.

Giannis Antetokounmpo being a genuinely humble athlete

Giannis is one of those down to earth athletes that continues to show his humility despite being the NBA Champion and MVP from 2021. He hasn’t let the fame get to his head. Among other kind acts, he gave a kid his own jacket off his back and walked around Greece with his trophy, taking pictures with passersby and talking to people on the streets.

Simone Biles pulls out of Olympics

When Simone Biles, the most highly-watched athlete in the Tokyo Olympics, pulled out, it was actually an incredibly brave act. Not only did she risk immense backlash, but she also opened up an incredibly important conversation about mental health during one of the most emotional times in history. She wanted to do what was best for herself and her team and as one of the most-watched athletes, served as a model of how to respond to high pressure when one is not mentally well.

Leylah Fernandez tribute to 911

Leylah Fernandez, 19-year old Canadian, lost in the US Open to Emma Raducanu. During her runner-up speech, she used her platform to give a touching tribute to New York City on the 20th anniversary of the 911 attacks. "I just want to say I hope I can be as strong and as resilient as New York has been the past 20 years."

Isaiah Jewett and Nijel Amos help each other up

The two athletes had a collision and fall during the 800 meter run during the Tokyo Olympics. Rather than get upset at each other or place blame, they put pride aside, both helped each other up, put their arms around each other, and walked to the finish line together.

Kobe Bryant’s induction into the HOF

Kobe was inducted into the Hall of Fame this year. After his tragic passing, his wife and daughter were there to speak on his behalf and it was an emotional and beautiful ceremony remembering his contributions to the NBA and the lasting effects he had on those who knew him.

Yulimar Rojas breaks world record and is celebrated by opponent

When Rojas broke the world record for the women’s long jump at the Tokyo Olympics, you would have thought her competitor Ana Peleteiro won it, too. Rojas was running and jumping in excitement and Peleteiro joined her, jumping to hug her and pose with her in excitement for her fellow athlete. It is always so nice to see this kind of support amongst athletes.

Broncos’ tribute to DeMaryius Thomas

During the Broncos and Lions game, the Broncos paid a tribute to the recently passed receiver, Demaryius Thomas. They lined up with 10 offensive players on the field and Courtland Sutton did not enter the field, but rather stood off the field, kneeling on a circle with the number 88 in it, the number worn by Thomas. The Broncos were given a Delay of Game penalty, but the Lions declined it and joined the tribute.