New Delhi: July 14, 2024, was billed as a Super Sunday for sports fans across the globe and boy did it live up to the billing. From the Wimbledon final to the Euro 2024 summit clash to the Copa America final it was an action-packed lineup for sports fanatics across continents. The Super Sunday proved to be a rollercoaster of a ride for sports enthusiasts who went through an array of emotions on an eventful day.
Some of the top sporting superstars were in action on a blockbuster day for sports with tennis icons Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz battling on the grass courts of SW17 for the Wimbledon men’s singles title to start things off.
A few hours later, top European footballers lined up in Berlin for the coveted continental football trophy as England and Spain faced off in the Euro 2024 final.
Some 8000 km away from Berlin, another battle for continental glory was about to commence between two South American giants as Argentina and Colombia locked horns in the 2024 Copa America final.
In the space of 12 hours, fans across the globe witnessed some thrilling sporting action that satiated their hunger for drama, excitement and entertainment in elite sports.
Amazing Alcaraz: The new king of SW17
While tennis fans were left disappointed after a lopsided affair ruined their anticipation and excitement for a five-set thriller, Carlos Alcaraz’s performance was a sight to behold. Even the staunchest of Novak Djokovic supporters were left in awe as the Spaniard dismantled the 24-time Grand Slam champion with his pinpoint serves, deft drop shots and thunderous forehand winners. The 21-year-old gave a masterclass against a seasoned Djokovic, who admitted his inferiority following the defeat.
LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 14: Carlos Alcaraz of Spain poses with the Gentlemen’s Singles Trophy following victory against Novak Djokovic of Serbia in the Gentlemen’s Singles Final during day fourteen of The Championships Wimbledon 2024 at All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 14, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)
After defending his Wimbledon crown, Alacarz has achieved a feat not even the Big 3 – Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Djokovic managed to achieve. The Spaniard has taken just 69 Slam matches (59-10) to win his fourth trophy at the level – quickest in the history of the sport.
Spain reclaim continental crown after winning fierce battle against England
The stage was set for a blockbuster finale of Euro 2024 as England and Spain clashed in an epic battle in Berlin. It was a match worthy of the occasion as the only unbeaten teams in the tournament faced off for the continental title. As expected, Spain were the dominant side with more hunger and desire than England, who were happy to absorb the pressure.
After a cagey first half, Spain were quick to get off the blocks in the second period and deservedly got in front through Nico Williams in the 47th minute. It was only after going behind, England woke up from their slumber and pressed for an equaliser. As has been the pattern of the tournament, Cole Palmer came off the bench to make a decisive impact as a substitute to give the Three Lions a lifeline in the 73rd minute.
But instead of capitalising on the moment, England sat back again and allowed Spain to regain control. The resilient English defence bulged under constant pressure as another substitute (Mikel Oyarzabal) made an impact off the bench by scoring the winner on 86 minutes.
BERLIN, GERMANY – JULY 14: Players of Spain celebrate with the trophy after winning the UEFA EURO 2024 final match between Spain and England at Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany on July 14, 2024. (Photo by Hesham Elsherif/Anadolu via Getty Images)
There was jubilation in Spanish stands, and gloom in the English section as tears of joy and despair rolled down after a fierce battle in Berlin.
Messi’s Argentina edge past gritty Colombia
Unsurprisingly, much of the Copa America 2024 final build-up was focused on Lionel Messi, who were aiming to guide Argentina to a second successive continental and third successive international title. Despite Argentina’s favourite stage, the match against Colombia was never going to be easy for the world champions.
The status of a team goes out of the window in a match of this magnitude. It will never be a cakewalk when there is so much at stake. It was a proper battle between the two South American giants as both teams fought fiercely in search of a goal.
Messi, the second-highest goal-scorer of all time behind Cristiano Ronaldo, failed to work his magic and was substituted just after the hour mark due to an ankle injury. Without their talisman, Argentina needed someone to rise up and Lautaro Martinez answered the call with a 112th-minute winner in extra time as La Albiceleste clinched their third successive international trophy.
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JULY 14: Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates with the trophy after the team’s victory during the CONMEBOL Copa America 2024 Final match between Argentina and Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium on July 14, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
Argentina’s win capped off a memorable day for the sports fans who will remember the Super Sunday for the rest of their days.
In the space of 12 hours, fans across the globe witnessed some thrilling sporting action that satiated their hunger for drama, excitement and entertainment in elite sports. Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
