Keely Hodgkinson wins BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024

Keely Hodgkinson won 800m gold in Paris (Picture: Getty Images)

Keely Hodgkinson has won BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024, adding the award to the 800m gold she won at the Olympic Games this summer.

England cricketer Joe Root claimed third place and darts sensation Luke Littler came second, while also winning the Young Sports Personality of the Year award.

The nominees missing out on a top three finish were Jude Bellingham, Sarah Storey and Alex Yee.

The 22-year-old Hodgkinson came out on top, though, after being one of the stars of Team GB in Paris as she won her first Olympic gold in style.

It was an emotional step up from silver for Hodgkinson after finishing second at the Tokyo Games and winning silvers at the 2022 and ’23 World Championship finals.

After picking up the award, she said: ‘Thank you so much. I’m actually more excited for more coach to be honest because I wouldn’t be where I am without him and his guidance that I’ve had since I was 17.

‘This year has been absolutely incredible for me. I’ve achieved everything I set out to do on the outdoor track which is kind of rare so I’m so grateful to be in this position.

Hodgkinson completed an unforgettable 2024 (Picture: Getty Images)

‘Thank you to everyone who voted at home as well. I hope you all loved watching the Paris Games as much as I loved competing in it. I wish you all a wonderful evening. Thank you so much.’

Speaking of how her life has changed since her summer success, she said: ‘I think there’s definitely a difference.

‘It’s been amazing ever since Paris, people have come up to me with such amazing messages saying their kids loved to watch it. It’s crazy to think little girls have watched that and been inspired to get into sport and athletics. That’s crazy.’

Luke Littler came in second behind Hodgkinson (Picture: Shutter)