Top 5 sports stories for the second half of 2023
By Wayne Gardiner 07/12/2023Back in June, Deputy Sports Editor Wayne Gardiner gave his take on the top five sports stories to have taken place.
Now as we wind down another year, Wayne returns to share his top five stories for sport in the second half of the year.
Europe win the Ryder Cup
Golf’s simmering tensions all came together in Rome as Europe and the United States faced off in the Ryder Cup, with the hosts regaining the title with a 16.5-11.5 victory. Having looked in complete control on Day One, Europe had to withstand a fightback, plus some off-course drama between Rory McIlroy and a caddie, before getting their hands back on one of golf’s most famous prizes. Phil Casey, Carl Markham and Andy Hampson made sure we didn’t miss a beat.
Read the full story on Explore:
South Africa win the Rugby World Cup
Ireland headed to the rugby union’s showpiece event as the favourites and, for the best part of a month in France, it looked as though they would justify the billing. South Africa were toppled in the group but ultimately New Zealand had too much for them in an epic last-four battle, while England – surprise semi-finalists themselves – went out at that stage to the Springboks, who went on to retain their title. Wales and Scotland both came home with regret, but every tackle, ruck, try, kick and word was brilliantly covered for PA by Andrew Baldock, Duncan Bech, Ed Elliot and Tony Brown.
Read the full story on Explore:
Death of Sir Bobby Charlton
Not all sport stories can be joyous and sadly, the death of football great Sir Bobby Charlton falls into that category. The Manchester United and England titan died in October, bringing about a groundswell of tributes and emotion from across the sport. PA was at the heart of the coverage, from the announcement of his passing, to a brilliant obit of his life through to the funeral, which fittingly started at Old Trafford. From start to finish, the story was a fine example of quality contacts, journalism and team-work all coming together as one.
Read the full story on Explore:
England fall short in World Cup defence
It has been an era of unprecedented success in white-ball cricket for England’s men but as ever, all good things must come to an end and that’s what happened in India this autumn. Jos Buttler’s men, memorable winners of the World Cup on home soil in 2019, failed to live up to their reputation and made a group-stage exit on the back of some humbling losses. They were not the only side humbled, with hosts India beaten in their own backyard by Australia in the final, with Rory Dollard covering the whole tour from start to finish.
Read the full story on Explore:
Lionesses fall at the final hurdle
For the second summer running England’s Lionesses captured the public’s imagination but, unlike at the European Championships, this episode had no victorious ending. A slow start to their campaign in Australia – all documented by Rachel Steinberg – was a ruse as Sarina Weigman’s side went through the gears to make the final, more and more stars emerging with players such as Mary Earps and Lauren Hemp coming to the fore. In the reckoning, Spain beat them in the Sydney final, deservedly so, but there was plenty to enjoy and remember, with PA once again following the Lionesses every step of the way.
Read the full story on Explore:
To learn more about PA Media’s sports coverage, visit: pa.media/sport