5 disruptions in the field of sports in 2016
1. Women rule the Olympics
For the first time in India's Olympic history, it was all about the women at Rio 2016. PV Sindhu with a historic silver in badminton, Sakshi Malik with a historic bronze in wrestling and Dipa Karmakar with a giant leap of faith in gymnastics, were the toast of the town as men were cast aside for a change.
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| For the first time in India's Olympic history, it was all about the women at Rio 2016. (Credit: PTI photo) |
2. WADA vs Russia
While WADA and IOC stopped short of a blanket ban on Russia at the Olympics after a report of widespread state-sponsored doping, the aftermath of one of the biggest doping scandals ever meant Russian athletes from London and Sochi Olympics were not only re-tested but also handed bans. This one continues to be a hard battle the world of athletics is currently fighting.
3. BCCI's battle for survival
In the world of Indian cricket, there was as much action off the field as on the field. The Lodha panel tightened the screws on the board, limiting its financial powers and even asking for an independent administrator to be appointed. The court battle was never-before-seen disruption in the way cricket is administered in India, with a global impact. The showdown spills into January 2017 when we can expect a final verdict.
4. Murray and Kerber dominate
The world of tennis witnessed new number ones for both men's and women's singles in 2016. Andy Murray was stupendous in dethroning long-standing numero uno Novak Djokovic, the man who himself was dominant in the early half by completing a career grand slam. On the other hand, winner of her 22nd grand slam in 2016, Serena Williams, bogged down by fatigue and injuries, was overtaken by German Angelique Kerber as the new number one.
5. Cubs win World Series after 108 years
And finally, perhaps, the most heart-warming sports triumphs of all in 2016. The victory of Chicago Cubs in the World Series after a staggering 108 years was a reminder to all athletes and fans just why sports takes a place of pride in our lives. The stories that emerged of Cubs fans finally living to celebrate the long-awaited glory, and some even not knowing how to carry on with their lives after losing the long-held tag of "losers", was the stuff of legends.