What are the most popular sports in the world? The question is quite complicated, if we answer it as objectively as possible. The popularity of sports in the world is determined on the basis of many factors. The main ones are:
- The number of people involved in the sport;
- number of fans;
- infrastructure;
- the number of professional leagues in the world;
- coverage in the media at various levels;
- the number of countries in which the sport is represented;
- gender equality;
- the relevance of the sport throughout the year;
- accessibility to different segments of the population.
If we take into account all these factors, we can distinguish such popular sports:
Soccer. Of course, this sport in the top of popularity will not surprise anyone, even those who have never been a fan and did not drive the ball around the field. 4 billion active fans around the world – is that not an indicator of soccer’s popularity? It is most widespread in Europe and South America, and the FIFA World Cup is the most important event in the field of soccer. In addition, this most popular sport in the world is available to almost everyone. All you need is a ball and a flat ground. That will be enough to start with. Soccer news is covered throughout the year in various print media, on TV, and on the Internet. This sport has the highest paid athletes and the biggest contracts.
Basketball. Has more than a billion fans, high ratings in the U.S. and professional leagues around the world.
Cricket. Surprisingly, this particular sport has over 2 billion fans. The most popular sport in the countries of the Indian subcontinent. In Pakistan and India, cricket is a religion.
Grand Tennis. Over 1 billion fans, a huge number of professional competitions, gender equality, prestige and activity throughout the year make it a top sport.
Athletics. The most comprehensive sport, including many different disciplines. The most popular sport at the Olympics, with participants from all countries. Champions in athletics are constantly written about and talked about in the media.
Rugby. One of the most popular sports in France, which has the largest number of professional leagues and athletes. It is also common in England, New Zealand, Scotland and South Africa, Australia and Ireland.
Formula 1 racing. One of the most expensive and spectacular sports. About 55 million people around the world watch the races every year.
Boxing. Boxing fans are incredibly numerous all over the world. It is a very common sport in the United States, Japan, Poland, Great Britain, Mexico, Romania, and the Philippines. Many people gather in the halls and at the TV screens to watch boxing.
Hockey. Perhaps the most wintry of all sports. Most widespread in such countries as Canada, USA, Finland and Sweden.
Volleyball. One of the easiest sports. It is played everywhere, both in gymnasiums and on open fields. Popular because of its accessibility.
Despite the popularity of these sports all over the world, there are also national sports in each country.
National sports of different countries
So, which countries can boast that they have developed national sports?
South America and soccer. This sport unites the people of each of the countries in the region. Brazilian soccer players hold the record for the number of world soccer championships won, and Brazilian fans are always the most active in any stand.
Hawaii and surfing. The ocean, 10-meter waves – a paradise for fans of extreme boarding. Every self-respecting man from a young age strives to learn how to conquer a wave. This is truly a national sport.
Spain and bullfighting. There are about four hundred bullfighting arenas in this country. It is no longer just a national sport, but an entire cultural heritage. After all, bullfights have been held in Spain since the 18th century. Despite the fact that more and more Spaniards are against bullfighting because of the inhumane treatment of animals, the title of national sport is unlikely to be lost.
Monaco and the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Fans literally swarm the track on both sides during the race. The length of the track is 263 km, so you can imagine how many people gather to watch the race.
Thailand and Thai boxing. Muay Thai is the name of the sport in this country. It is the national sport, since the early years the Thais are learning to master the techniques of boxing.
France and the Tour de France. Every year, the cycling race brings together the best cyclists in the world and equally great fans. 15 million people watch the events during this massive sporting event.
Brazil and beach volleyball. The beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema are always full of fans of this sport. Beach volleyball gained tremendous popularity after the Brazilians won the Olympic Games in Atlanta in 1996, they took both gold and silver.