Reigning champion Keely Hodgkinson made a dazzling return to the BBC Sports Personality of the Year ceremony on Thursday, lighting up the red carpet in MediaCity, Salford. The Olympic 800m gold medallist, who claimed the prestigious title in 2024, arrived at the 2025 event in a show-stopping black mini dress.
A Champion's Return to the Spotlight
The 23-year-old athlete commanded attention on the star-studded carpet, wearing a sculpted black dress that highlighted her toned physique. The eye-catching ensemble showcased her long legs, which she paired with sheer black tights and elegant heels. Her blonde hair was styled poker straight, completing a glamorous look that marked a triumphant appearance for the sporting star.
Hodgkinson's presence at the ceremony followed her historic victory in the 2024 public vote. She became the fourth consecutive woman to win the SPOTY trophy, following in the footsteps of Emma Raducanu, Beth Mead, and Mary Earps. Her win last year came after a formidable period in sport, which included the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games, Wimbledon, the EUROs, and several World Cups.
An Astonishing Year of Achievement
The middle-distance runner secured the 2024 award after a phenomenal season. She saw off competition from a shortlist of British sporting greats, including darts sensation Luke Littler, triathlete Alex Yee, footballer Jude Bellingham, para-cyclist Dame Sarah Storey, and cricketer Joe Root.
Her year was defined by a stunning gold medal performance in the 800 metres at the Paris 2024 Olympics, where she also successfully defended her European title. Beyond the podium finishes, she etched her name into the history books by becoming the sixth-fastest woman ever in the event, setting a new British record of one minute and 54.61 seconds.
Upon receiving the iconic trophy from former winners Sir Chris Hoy and Mary Earps, Hodgkinson admitted to being in a "little bit of shock." She expressed particular excitement for her coach and gratitude for her incredible year, telling the audience, "I am so grateful to be in this position."
All Eyes on the 2025 Contenders
With the 2024 champion celebrated, focus now shifts to who will succeed her. The BBC has revealed its six-person shortlist for the 2025 award, with golfing superstar Rory McIlroy installed as the early favourite.
According to bookmaker Paddy Power, the Ryder Cup winner has odds of 8/13 to finally claim the prize after several previous nominations. McIlroy, who was critical of the award in 2023, calling it a "popularity contest," stands a strong chance following a record-breaking Ryder Cup win on American soil in September.
He faces significant competition, however. Lionesses and European Championship winner Chloe Kelly is second favourite at 10/3, while new Formula One world champion Lando Norris is close behind at 7/2. The shortlist is completed by Lionesses goalkeeper Hannah Hampton (20/1), darts world champion Luke Littler (25/1), and England Women's Rugby World Cup winner Ellie Kildunne (66/1).
The ceremony in Salford proved once again that the BBC Sports Personality of the Year remains a premier event in the British sporting calendar, honouring past glories while building anticipation for the next champion to be crowned.
