Keely Hodgkinson has been named the BBC Sports Personality of the Year for 2024, capping a remarkable year that saw her win Olympic gold in Paris. The middle-distance runner received the award at a ceremony held at MediaCity in Salford, broadcast live on BBC One.
Hodgkinson, 22, beat a strong shortlist that included England footballer Jude Bellingham, darts sensation Luke Littler, triathlete Alex Yee, cricketer Joe Root, and Paralympic cyclist Dame Sarah Storey. The winner was decided by a public vote, with the final top three announced by former football star Mary Earps and cycling legend Sir Chris Hoy.
Accepting the award, Hodgkinson said: 'I'm actually more excited for my coach. This year has been incredible for me. Thank you to everyone who voted at home.' Her coaches, Trevor Painter and Jenny Meadows, were later named Coach of the Year.
The ceremony also saw Luke Littler win the Young Sports Personality of the Year award, while Mark Cavendish received the Lifetime Achievement Award following his retirement. The Unsung Hero award went to 90-year-old Jean Paton, a volunteer in the sailing community for four decades.
Other winners included Wigan Warriors as Team of the Year, and Dame Sarah Storey was recognised for her 19 Paralympic gold medals. The event was presented by Gabby Logan, Alex Scott, and Clare Balding, with Gary Lineker absent from the line-up.
