Whether it’s a mascot’s funny antics, an Olympic swimmer’s prank or an NFL player’s troll-tastic handshake, viral sports moments captivate fans and break through barriers of language, time zones and sport. They help athletes and teams connect with new followers, drive engagement and build loyalty among existing fanbases.
Creating a viral moment is no easy feat. There are many factors that need to be in place, and not everyone can pull it off. However, for those that are able to strike gold, the rewards can be massive.
Viral sports moments can catapult brands to ubiquity, exposing them to millions of people and making them household names. They can also be powerful marketing tools that help drive sales and brand awareness.
While some viral moments are accidental, others can be intentionally engineered. Take, for example, the “Ice Bucket Challenge” trend that swept social media in 2014. The campaign capitalized on a combination of elements to become a phenomenon: social currency, evoking emotion, showcasing talent, providing practical value and telling a compelling narrative.
This year’s Olympics offered up a number of head-scratching viral moments, from “pommel horse guy” earning a bronze medal and a spot on Dancing with the Stars to the 58-year-old Turkish shooter who went viral for his iconic stance in the men’s 10m air pistol. Choosing just five of them was almost impossible, but here are some of the most viral sports moments of 2024.